Academic libraries often serve as the protectors of challenged books. Pressure on public libraries to remove controversial works can and often does result in the restriction of access or removal of the work from those libraries shelves. Academic libraries, however, operate with a stronger sense of academic and intellectual freedom. To analyze how…

As I approach my thoughts on faith and the adult learning I will concentrate my deliberations on faith, spirituality and dissonance, and the adult learner as reported in in-person dialogs selected from four studies (Shirk, 1990, 1998, 2005). Consideration will be given to the sociopsychological aspects of and the costs and benefits related to…

This article assesses developments in public library provision for Black and minority ethnic [BME] communities in the UK since the publication in 1969 of the results of research into the needs of "Indian and Pakistani communities". It includes a brief discussion of some major societal issues, and then sets public library services in this…

Each year the State Library sends annual report forms to California's public, academic, special, state agency, and county law libraries. Statistical data from those reports are tabulated in this publication, with directory listings published in the companion volume, "California Library Directory." For this fiscal year, 389 libraries of…

This report includes national and state summary data on public libraries in the 50 states and the District of Columbia, with an introduction, findings, and numerous tables. The report is based on data from the Public Libraries Survey for fiscal year 2004, and includes information on population of legal service area, service outlets, public service…

There is abundant evidence that schools with strong reading programs have successful students. But building strong reading skills is a complex task, particularly by the time students reach the middle grades. A survey was conducted that involved all Indiana middle grades schools in May 2009. Two types of data analysis were utilized in preparing the…

In this bulletin, the Music Teachers' National Association committee on the history of music and libraries presents the summaries of the questionnaire prepared by the committee and sent out by the Bureau of Education in 1917-18. This is the first statement to show the condition and resources of the music sections of public and school libraries,…

This paper is a selective review of recent publications, focused on the economic value of public and special libraries which are treated separately, since context and organisational objectives differ widely for different types of libraries. Those who wish to further explore this topic will find many studies into the social value of libraries which…

Outlines and assesses the collection development and selection procedures for multicultural literature by children's librarians in public libraries. Examines selection patterns of public librarians determining what selection procedures are appropriate for multicultural materials for children. Finds that the ethnic constituency of a community in…

Examines the effects of students' access to print via a community library. Compares knowledge of authors, words, books, and magazines between the students who accessed the community library and students who used the school library. Indicates that the students who visited community libraries outperformed students who did not. (SG)

This report on the activities of the Oregon Intellectual Freedom Clearinghouse during the time period between July 1, 1990, and June 30, 1991, begins with a summary of data on challenges against library materials reported to the clearinghouse during this time period. Details about each challenge reported by public libraries and school library…

This report includes national and state summary data on public libraries in the 50 states and the District of Columbia, with an introduction, selected findings, and tables. The report is based on data from the Public Libraries Survey for fiscal year 2005, and includes information on service measures such as number of users of electronic resources,…

The integration of print and non-print resources in libraries or media centers is a complex issue that involves three considerations: intershelving, records organization, and integration of a media center's functional areas. Although resource integration is not appropriate in every setting, it is highly recommended for community college and public…

Papers on two projects are presented that deal with the effective use of volunteers in rural public libraries. The first paper on simplifying manual circulation techniques, explains a circulation system that volunteers in a rural library can use easily and efficiently. Setting only four due dates a month and filing all materials alphabetically in…

This book presents an analysis of the current state of book banning in schools and public libraries, offering ready reference material on major incidents, legal cases, and annotated entries on the most frequently challenged books. Every section of this revised edition has been rewritten, updated, or expanded to reflect new developments. In-depth…