The F3 Express command is designed for more detailed search strategies. The search points provided are: Anyword, Author, Title, Subject, Publisher, Series, Format, Phase, Section, Interest, Rdg (Reading) Level, Indep (Independent) Rdg (Reading), Status, and Price. The F9 Shelflist command enables users to browse the collection in call number order. According to the manual, "Shelflist searching is convenient to use when you are searching for a topic and want to scan the collection to see related titles on the same subject." [Top of Page]
A CD-ROM User’s Manual accompanies this software. The contents of the manual include but are not limited to the following topics: Welcome to ESLC, Selection Policies, How to Use This Selection Tool, Getting Started, Section 1: Beginning, Section 2: Overview, Section 3: How to Use ESLC, Browse Access, Shelflist Searching, Express Access, Troubleshooting, and Index. In addition, the CD-ROM is accompanied by a card that on one side outlines keystrokes involved in using the ESLC as a whole, and on the other side outlines keystrokes involved only in the Express and Browse commands. [Top of Page]
According to the manual, "The Elementary School Library Collection is a primary resource for the continuous development, evaluation, and maintenance of existing collections as well as for the establishment of new library media centers. High quality materials have been selected to meet the curricula related needs and personal interests of preschool through sixth grade children. The Professional Collection, which focuses on child development and curriculum areas, helps adults in their professional and personal contacts with young people."
The manual also states that the ESLC can be used as a guidance tool, as well as a cataloging and bibliographic aid. In my opinion, the ESLC achieves its purpose. This edition provides information on 8, 549 items in a variety of formats such as books, periodicals, study prints, filmstrips, sound recordings, videocassettes, videodiscs, and CD-ROM products. All of the resources should be available for purchase. [Top of Page]
No gimmicks or fun factors are associated with this CD-ROM.
I would recommend the Elementary School Library Collection. This product is not slick or entertaining, but it is efficient and effective. It is a reliable reference tool that provides current information in a user-friendly format. [Top of Page]
I installed this software on an Epson Action Tower 3000 PC computer. It has 8 megabytes of RAM and a 420 megabyte hard drive. The program performed well on the computer I used. Installation instructions are located on page 34 of the manual. At the "c" prompt, users type install, then they choose a disk drive for the CD-ROM. Then they type, "runeslc." I found this software very easy to install.
If technical support is needed, the manual invites users to contact, “the Brodart Automation Help Desk at 1-800-233-8467 extension 215” and the manual urges users to, "Please have your personal ESLC CD-ROM serial number handy." Further information about ESLC is obtainable by calling the same number and asking for extension 572. A CD-ROM registration card is included in the package.