It is a truism that a craftsman is only as good as his 
tools.  The Z-System version of BDS-C is a giant step forward in 
bringing "environmentally sensitive" programming to the Z 
community.  The compiler embeds Z awareness in the low level file 
primitives, making it a breeze to allow true Z-Style file 
specifications, password checking, etc.

     Even with the low level support for Z-System, there are other 
areas that need to be addressed to bring the full power of 
Z-System and enhancements like time and date support to the C 
programmer.  This is where this collection of routines fits in.

     The routines in the various modules are documented in the 
*.DOC files in the library.  Briefly, the collection includes:

     * A full set of TCAP access routines similar to VLIB
     * A set of box and line draw primitives
     * A directory search engine
     * FCB and DIR comparison routines
     * A filesize routine
     * ZS/ZDDOS clock and filestamp access
     * Many ZCPR functions in the spirit of Z3LIB
     * ..and more!

     Several testbed programs, including a sorted directory with 
filesize program, are included.  None are very fancy as they exist 
primarily to test the routines, but with a little polish....

     It is my hope that Z-System programmers will use and expand 
these routines while building Z-System programs and utilities with 
them.  I am still developing the collection and things like MCL 
and Z3MSG manipulation are next on the list.  Please use these and 
report any problems, suggestions, etc. by email to:

     Cameron W. Cotrill
     Ladera Z-Node 300/1200/2400
     213/670-9465