From Booklist
Devoting one crammed chapter to each topic, the author handles instructional technology, computer basics, library management using a computer, multimedia CD-ROM, videodiscs, local area networks, computer telecommunications, video and computers, television and distance learning, and multimedia presentations. Sections within each chapter answer specific questions (for example: "What is available in CD-ROM format?" or "What is a videodisc?"), and resources, including less-than-satisfactory bibliographies, are provided. Each chapter offers a satisfactory overview of technology and its utilization in school libraries and includes good diagrams, sample record-keeping forms, and instructions for using equipment. As a whole, the book (actually a three-ring binder) provides a basic overview of technology but leaves some puzzling information out. For example, company names and addresses are given but not phone numbers; in a discussion of computer software and copyright, Bucher correctly tells us that to lend software we have to include a copyright warning but fails to reprint the actual four-sentence warning. Recommended for those wanting a surface overview of all kinds of technology; those needing more detailed information will do better with more in-depth works. Charles Harmon
