Reviews common technical services policies relating to circulation, cataloging, and collection development that routinely prevent full access to public library resources for children and adolescents. It is argued that technical services librarians can work closely with those in youth services to ensure intellectual freedom for children and youth.…

The Girls' Books in Series collection at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro's Jackson Library contains over 1850 volumes, with publication dates ranging from the mid-1800s to the 1980s. The library's list currently contains approximately 511 different series. The library owns all the titles for 85 of the series. For 167 of the series,…

This article discusses criteria of a good computer software package to aid the public librarian in the building, weeding, and maintenance of a software collection for young adults. Highlights include manuals or documentation; bells, whistles, and color; and the true test of time. (EJS)

Attention to school libraries must be at the heart of any comprehensive plan for improving youth literacy. Excellent school libraries are essential if young people are to have access to the reading resources to help them gain the level of literacy achievement vital to meeting the challenge of the twenty-first century. Sections of the booklet…

Examines gender bias in young adult literature collections and advocates selecting and promoting materials that help youth develop positive views of females and an awareness of the obstacles women face in overcoming sexual stereotypes. A sampling of 9 titles is described, and an annotated bibliography of 19 additional titles is included. (Contains…

Discusses the genre of teen paperback series. Topics addressed include the necessity for different evaluation criteria than those applied to monographs regarding setting, characters, and continuity; value judgments regarding quality and enjoyment; collection development; and improved circulation. (LRW)

Presents a tongue-in-cheek analysis of how to improve young adult services in libraries. Highlights include funding; providing technology that includes Internet access; comfortable furniture; food; longer evening hours; research needs; staff attitudes; job and volunteer service opportunities; restrictive rules and fees; and better books and media.…

Outlines goals and guidelines for developing Native American collections in libraries. Prominent publishers of relevant materials are identified and titles for a core collection are discussed, including reference and Native American subject area materials. (EA)

Reports the findings of a survey of school library media centers in eight large urban areas with large enrollments of Hispanic children that was conducted to determine the availability of Spanish language literature. Highlights include media specialists and support staff; holdings; budget; book selection process; and library events and activities.…

Discusses the role of public and school libraries in helping adolescents deal with the problems and issues they face, including sexuality, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and gender roles. Outside resources are discussed; collection development and selection policies are considered; and 15 information sources on sexuality are listed.…