1974-1985: Age of automation

1974-1985: Age of automation

Milton G. Simms (University Librarian 1974-1985) wrote in the ANU Annual Report in 1974, "Libraries are entering an era of change brought about by the pressures of rising costs and also by new opportunities to fulfil longstanding objectives. Automation now seems to be the only means of significantly improving the productivity of library systems and the quality of library services and the gradual process of change to computer-based systems has begun." (p.35)

Much of the library systems were gradually automated: acquisition, cataloguing, and circulation; conversion of card shelf list to machine-readable catalogue, retrospective computerisation of the card catalogue, and the implementation of AWA (Amalgamated Wireless of Australia) URICA system. In 1982, the Library co-organised an international conference on Chinese bibliographical automation, bringing together computer specialists, librarians and linguists from eight different countries to Canberra to promote and prepare international automation standards.

While this process was underway, there were some interesting highlights. The creation of a new position for collection development in South-East Asian studies marked the beginning of substantial and systematic growth in this area. In the attempt to unite the two libraries, a proposal for a New Central Library Building was submitted; however, all hopes of success were annulled with the announcement of a funding cut to tertiary education by the federal Minister for Education.

A Library review was conducted in 1982 by a committee chaired by the DVC Professor Ian G. Ross. One of the recommendations of the committee was to extend the R.G. Menzies Building to alleviate the perennial issue of lack of space. Despite its high priority status, the funding never materialised, and collection rationalisation between the now three main library buildings (R.G. Menzies, J.B. Chifley and W.K. Hancock - Life Sciences Library Building renamed as W.K. Hancock Building was completed in 1975) was sought as a mean to negotiate the ever-encroaching issue of space.

Amidst these activities, the Library celebrated the accession of its 1 millionth book in 1978: George Ferguson's Some Early Australian Bookmen published by ANU Press. The occasion was honoured by the attendance of the Governor General, Sir Zelman Cowen, in a memorable ceremony.