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The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology carries out research into the causes and treatment of the rheumatic diseases. In 1984 a programme of computerisation was implemented. By linking mini computers on an Ethernet and by providing terminal access to the network, a system was designed which allows staff to access all automated facilities from anywhere in the building, or from remote sites. It also allows vendor independent modification. The suite of software purchased allows free flow of files and data between functions. This software was used as the basis for automating library services in such a way that not only can Institute staff access all automated library services from anywhere in the building, but they are using the menu driven operating system familiar to them. A reference database containing a record of all papers obtained from outside the Institute, and a book database incorporating acquisitions, a catalogue and circulation control have been set up. Staff send requests for interlibrary loans and photocopies online to the Library. Scientists can maintain personal reprint collections. Data retrieved from online searches is down‐loaded into files immediately accessible from any point on the network and can be incorporated into any of the databases. Journals management is automated. The Library is therefore not an ‘island of information’, but an online facility.

Based on a workshop commissioned by the West Midlands branch of the Association of Directors of Social Services, this editorial considers possible alternatives to care trusts. Although the recent consultation on a new vision for adult social care emphasises the need for more effective partnerships between health and social care, the current care trust model has a number of limitations for many health and local government communities, that could be overcome by alternative approaches.

Extra care housing has developed from sheltered housing and has increasingly been seen as a popular option by policy‐makers for a number of reasons. These include the inability of conventional sheltered housing to be an adequate solution for a growing population of very old people, the decline in popularity and high costs of residential care and perceived problems with older people staying in mainstream housing. There is, however, no agreed definition of extra care housing, even though a growing number of government grants are becoming available for this type of housing. This is causing confusion for providers and for older people and their families who are not sure exactly what is provided. This lack of clarity means that this form of housing has become an erratic and piecemeal form of provision.

Examines the library at Smith Kline & French Research, which has been using an automated interlibrary loans system based on BASIS text retrieval software since 1986. Describes various approaches to automation. Shows how the new system allows R&D staff to enter requests for journal articles or issues, books and patents at their own terminal or computer, and to search the database for items already requested. Concludes that the system has been very well received in its first years of operation.

The article reflects on the law and current policy and practice and their implications for joint working. Decisions are still determined by separate legislation and guidance, even where joint working is the necessary and approved approach. A universal approach to assessment is advocated.