New Trends in the Development of Library Data Processing Networks.

The technological development which probably will influence the future of library data processing networks is considered, including the increasing importance and distribution of microcomputers and the introduction of electronic compact storage media such as optical disks. The traditional concepts of mainly centralized online networks will probably change to more independent local systems with different types of cooperation with a network centre. On the basis of current trends, an estimation is given of the expected development of network concepts, preferably the use of big bibliographical databases on optical disks by local library systems.