The Antiquarian Micro

Abstract

Getting Started

In my library school days a dozen years ago, it was common (though perhaps not very prudent) for those of us intending careers in rare books and special collections studiously to avoid all courses in—or indeed any exposure to—computers. I can recall explaining that while automation was certain to have a major impact on mainstream librarianship, I wasn’t going to be “that kind of librarian.”

Indeed, in those days library computer applications were limited to rather remote systems tasks, and a high level of data processing expertise was a necessary ticket of entry. But very soon . . .