Summarizes the arguments for and against fees in public libraries, and discusses whether the fee controversy is one of alternative technical means of securing funding, or of competing visions of the role of the public library. (Author/CLB)

Examination of the downward trend of college and university enrollments and its possible effects on academic libraries notes that fewer undergraduates, fewer full-time students, and more graduate, part-time, and older students will affect clientele, services, and support. Other trends considered include fewer new academic librarians and the…

This publication provides detailed guidelines on how libraries and library associations can begin the process of lobbying in the state capital for funding or legislation. The first of three major sections covers how to use the legislative process, how to develop a government relations program, and how to select public relations tools. The second…

Discusses philosophy and economics of charging users for library services. Free services are advocated for reasons of equal access and intellectual freedom, and alternatives to charging are suggested, citing Seattle Public Library as an example. Opinions and statistics on library fees excerpted from the current literature are included. (CDD)

Compares the role of a school library in an ideal situation and the situation in Kenya. The lack of school policies, lack of recognition, insufficient funding, and lack of qualified personnel are cited as factors responsible for the poor performance of school libraries in Kenya. (CLB)

Developed by the Task Force on Public Library and Library System Standards and Guidelines, these general standards are designed to give local planners a useful tool with which to assess their own unique programs of service and establish direction for future development. A section on planning and the public library considers (1) imperatives for…

This issue provides a detailed overview of the Illinois literacy effort, including committee lists, project proposal forms, rules and regulations, financial support information, and a chronology of events. Several articles focus on the planning and implementation of literacy programs and the role of the library in literacy education. (CLB)

Reports the results of a survey which examined the status of library media centers in public schools given exemplary status by the U.S. Department of Education and makes recommendations in the areas of staffing, the role of the library, and funding which would have a significant impact on elementary education. (CLB)