To:  usnplist@leo.vsla.edu, serialst@uvmvm.uvm.edu

Hi,

Here in the state of Vermont are gearing up to begin the cataloging phase
of the Vermont Newspaper Project.  We are still in the workflow-planning
stages and have been trying to think about ways to automate some of the
cataloging workflow (especially where there is field work, but also to
develop database applications to store more local kinds of info.  such as
preservation data, condition of materials, etc.).  I am also interested in
building networked database (separate from our OCLC obligations) that we
would be able to use to produce reports, sorts, possibly to mount on the
web, etc.  The networked element is important to us because, while most of
the physical cataloging will take place at the State Library in
Montpelier, the project will be administered from the University of
Vermont in Burlington (we are about 40 miles apart).  It would be nice and
convenient if we could share db info. from our separate locations.
Eventually, as the project unfolds, we would like to be able to provide
public access to the db over the Internet.

During the survey phase of the project a database of titles and
repositories of approximately 700 records was started using a software
package for Macs called Filemaker Pro 2.0.  I am interested in
converting this file to a Windows-based environment and developing it
further so that we could also port it to the web at some point.

I'm wondering if there are any folks in USNP-land (or elsewhere) who have
any experience automating the cataloging routines of their state
Newspaper Projects and/or developing database applications for a
networked environment?  What kinds of software are you using and how is
your workflow arranged?  Any experience converting from Mac to Windows to
Web?

Am I hoping for too much, or for the impossible?  There's some very nice
state newspaper web sites with database applications ... so I'm hoping
some of you who have implemented some applications already will read this
and be willing or able to share some thoughts.

Please send replies to me or to the list.  If interest warrants, I will
summarize replies for the list.

Thanks in advance for any help or insights.

        Birdie MacLennan
        Serials Coordinator        bmaclenn@zoo.uvm.edu
        University of Vermont      bmaclenn@uvmvm.uvm.edu