This manual, the first of a series to be devoted to the automation of library operations, is an introduction to the planning and production of computer-produced book catalogs. The major part of the text covers the whole range of questions involved in planning a book catalog: choice of input device, development of programs designed to meet the particular needs of an institution, planning of production schedules and procedures, and methods of reproducing the printout to obtain the required number of copies. A description of booklists and catalogs produced by the use of punched cards is also included. Although the explanations are general rather than detailed, a number of illustrations of sample pages, worksheets, and flow charts are included to clarify and illustrate certain points. There are also numerous references to the excellent and extensive (97 items) bibliography. (MD)