Publishing Column

By Megan Drennan

Next fall, elementary and middle school students may no longer have to trek to the library to do research projects. Instead, they may be able to access a huge on-line library by simply typing questions into a computer.

Tandem Computers Inc. of Cupertino, Calif., and Infonautics Corporation of Wayne, Pa., recently joined forces to create what they call "the world's most extensive electronic library for children.''

The new multi-million-dollar Homework Helper will allow K-8 students to access a wide range of publications, including articles from the Los Angeles Times, CNN television transcripts, and over 700 major literary works.

A student, for example, could type in the question "Who said Et tu, Brute?'' and the Homework Helper would provide the full text of "Julius Caesar,'' an encyclopedia article, and references for...