| Scope and method of study. Subjects for this study were library directors of academic libraries belonging to the AMIGOS Bibliographic Council, having an integrated automated library system with at least three areas of library procedure currently automated. An initial sample of 40 library directors was used, but due to a nonresponse bias the final sample consisted of 26 library directors. A Delphi study technique was utilized to gather data to determine effects automation is having on academic libraries.;Findings and conclusions. Automation is effecting academic libraries. Budgets are larger due to an increase in maintenance costs and a need for more equipment and computer supplies. It is imperative that library personnel obtain ongoing computer training, become computer literate, and be prepared for an increase in workload. Library users are now able to find materials more quickly and enjoy being able to know if something is checked out. In the development and implementation stages of an automated system in an academic library there should be full institutional administrative support, the hiring of a consultant is desirable, and committees of librarians and computer center people should be formed to decide the system that best suits their particular needs. |
