"Research Library Issues" ("RLI") focuses on current and emerging topics that are strategically important to research libraries. The articles explore issues, share information, pose critical questions, and provide examples. This issue includes the following articles: (1) Special Issue on Diversity (Mark A. Puente); (2)…

Three sources indicated the need for designing a usability study of the Western Michigan University Libraries' Web site: the results of the 2004 LibQUAL+ survey; the completion of the library's new strategic planning document; and suggestions by library customers and library staff. LibQUAL+ findings and customer comments suggested customers…

This report presents the Library of Michigan's (LM) long term plan for the period of March, 1997 to September, 1999. The external and internal initiatives of the Board of Trustees are first highlighted. Then, following the Library of Michigan vision statement, four topics are discussed. These each include an outline of the objective and the…

There is significant inequality in funding public libraries in Michigan, and there is every likelihood that there will be increased instability in that funding if action is not taken immediately. The objectives of this study included the following: provide an analysis of how public libraries in Michigan are currently funded; identify current…

The Kalamazoo Public Library recently won an election that increased local library tax support from 2.8074 mills to 4 mills. Knowing why the election was being held, when information on the issue(s) would be communicated to voters, and how the information would be disseminated contributed to its success. The funding provides for renovations, a new…