A Computer-Based System for Serial Records at Lawrence Radiation Laboratory

A computer‐based system for processing the library records associated with journal subscriptions has been in daily routine operation for 3 years. Handling approximately 3, 500 subscriptions, the system uses a small, second‐generation computer (IBM 1401). Monthly batches of turnaround cards are produced for both daily check‐in of journals and weekly processing of binding units. The most distinctive feature of the system is a daily listing produced by a high‐speed printer (30, 000 lines per minute); each list supersedes the previous day's list and includes full information for each subscription in the system. Elaborately formated for user convenience, the list displays current check‐in record, bound and unbound holdings, and material in the binding process. By‐products of the system are address labels for distributing issues after check‐in and various lists of holdings organized for use by staff, customers, and subscription agents. The benefits and costs are discussed and qualitatively evaluated; sufficient hard data are not available for a definitive quantitative study.