BIBLIOPHILE is an attempt to provide a library stack that addresses the needs of serious collectors and students interested in recording collections of works in a standard, professional manner. This program was born out of my own need to keep track of book purchases, as well as collect bibliographies for inclusion in papers.
While writing the stack, I kept in mind four groups of potential users. First, casual collectors who use their computers to keep track of their libraries. Second, collectors like myself who require the same features of the casual user, but often need to organize their collections in accordance to the standards of the professional market. Third, small to mid-size dealers who need the features of the first two groups, yet must also prepare their collections for sale. Finally, this stack can also be used as a journal citation stack, exporting information in a standard bibliographical format. BIBLIOPHILE addresses the needs of all these groups. The program offers the following features:
•Sorts cards by author name, book title, publisher, publication date (either old-new or new-old), subject, or keywords.
•Cards are date stamped, numbered, and noted as to their current sort status.
•Book costs can be entered into a separate field. Inventory costs can be totaled through the UTILITIES button.
•Searches card contents and keyword fields. Recurring searches can be accomplished by simply clicking a button.
•Documentation included within the stack itself by a script which mimics “Ballon Help.” Users click on a button to begin and then simply pass the cursor over the item which requires explanation. A short description appears describing the function of the item. Click again and help disappears.
•Dealer addresses are available in a hidden field. A simple click on a button and the field appears. Another click and the information is hidden.
•Standard bibliographical information can be stored on each card (title, author, etc.) as well as more detailed professional information, such as edition, binding, and professional citations. Descriptive comments are stored in a scrolling field.
•Exports a pre-formatted bibliography or catalog as a text file. The file can then be read by most word-processing applications. This in itself is a significant time-saver for those who will use the stack to either create catalogs of their collection or will use the stack as a journal citation program. Standard Hypercard print functions are also supported for users who need a more customized listing.
The stack was developed on a Mac Plus with 2 1/2 MB RAM, system 6.07, and with Hypercard 1.2.5. I have tested it on system versions as early as 4.1 (but not 7.0), and Hypercard 2.0 with no apparent problems.
I have enclosed the stack with three example cards so that you could see how it can be used in a collector’s environment. In addition, I have enclosed examples of how the stack exports information into a text file. Both are shown exactly as BIBLIOPHILE exports them. The user could reorganize the information to suit his own needs if necessary.
Thanks for downloading and trying BIBLIOPHILE. I retain all applicable copyrights to this stack, but you may distribute it freely as long as the Read Me! and Example files are included with the program. This stack is "Bookware"; if you find it useful, send me a non-fiction book (I prefer American history). Comments and bug reports are welcome (I'll also trade addresses of good used book dealers).
