ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on bibliographic record formats, on indexing and on information retrieval techniques – that is, on some of the main processes of concern to information managers: the creation, storage, processing and distribution of information. The diverse reasons for database production have led to different methods of organizing and storing the bibliographic data for machine manipulation. The physical format of a bibliographic record which is to be manipulated by machine is vital. The development of MARC in the US and similar projects in other countries have emphasized the importance of the international exchange of bibliographic data in machine-readable form. An International Standard Book Number identifies one title or edition of that title, from one publishing area or language group, and one specific publisher within that area or group. Standardization and compatibility issues are of concern to all three major participants in the information industry: the producers of information, the distributors and the users.
