| The purpose of this study was to establish baseline data on the use of CD-ROM technology in libraries and information centers in Saudi Arabia. This study examined the knowledge, experience, and attitudes of library directors in the country as well as selected demographic and financial data about the libraries.;A descriptive survey research method utilizing a questionnaire was chosen as the most appropriate and effective method for collecting the data needed to answer the study's research questions. Of the 68 libraries and information centers identified by the researcher, 66 (97%) provided usable responses. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were the statistical procedures used for the data analysis.;It was found that 35% of the responding libraries were using CD-ROM technology and 32% were planning to acquire this technology in the future. The rest (33%) of the responding libraries were not using CD-ROM nor did they plan to acquire it in the future. Several reasons were given for not acquiring this technology: the library was too small, CD-ROM was never considered, CD-ROM costs too much in relation to the library budget, there was no user demand, and useful products were not available in Arabic.;Institution control (public/private), student enrollment, library budget, number of professional librarians, respondents' level of education, and respondents' experience with online and CD-ROM searches were factors that significantly impacted the decision to acquire CD-ROM in a library.;The study findings indicate that the majority (74%) ofthe libraries with CD-ROM employ additional security measures to protect their CD-ROM systems from damage and loss. Despite the large percentage employing security measures, fewer than 20% of the respondents believe that their libraries have serious security problems.;The overwhelming majority (94%) of the respondents believe that CD-ROM use and evaluation should be included in the library school curricula. More than 85% of the respondents, whether their libraries have CD-ROM or not, believe that the availability of CD-ROM in libraries has a positive effect on librarians' image. |
