Joanne,
In Access, you can either import a dBase III dbf file and it's index,
or you can simply link to the dBase III dbf file and it's index.  If you
link, you want to be careful about writing to your database,
because changes you make in Access might affect the old DOS
program that created the database in unexpected ways.  You won't
hurt the database, but the DOS program might be expecting
certain values to appear in certain fields, for example, which would
adversely effect the DOS program if they were changed by the
Access program.
If you import into an Access table (which is a very simple process),
you can do whatever you want with the data, because you have
created a new file.  However, if data changes in the DOS dBaseIII
file, you will need to import again to update your Access file.
Generally, what I do is create a new access table and link it to the
dBaseIII file ( assuming I'm still using the old DOS program).  I add
fields in the new Access file and link fields to the dBaseIII file,
using the dBase III as a read-only file.
I don't know if DakTech still makes computers, but they were a low
end PC Clone maker last time I saw them.  I personally wouldn't
buy one or even try to fix one any more, but that is based on old
data.  Actually, I wouldn't buy anything that doesn't have a three
year warranty.  My best luck has been with Dell, more expensive,
but definitely works.  They also have a refurbished program which
carries the same 3 year on site warranty as a new unit.  I am
finding more and more problems with clone makers, I believe
because they don't do as good a job on matching the motherboard
to peripherals and operating systems.  You definitely get what you
pay for.

Brian
Technology Coordinator
CNSU
PO BOX 107
LYNDONVILLE VT  05851
802-626-5262  FAX 802-626-3423
www.cnsu.k12.vt.us