The computerized network of Israeli university libraries

Abstract

In Israel, a universal but decentralized national computer network of university libraries has been established. This network, supported by the Council of Higher Education, is based on the ALEPH software developed at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The system has been tested in the Technion University Library on a VAX computer. The university library computer network has been operated by the Steering Committee, its members are library directors and programmers. Because the participating libraries have presented their requirements during the early stage of software development. it was possible to take them into consideration and to develop a highly flexible software. The Steering Committee has also the role to determine a low price both for hardware and software needed for the sysfem. One of the main purposes of the network is lo create a national unión catalogue of books and periodicals.