Reports on a study of the effects of participation in public library summer reading programs on children's reading skills. Results on a standardized test administered to 279 students in grades 1-5 in May and September are analyzed and compared for participants and nonparticipants in the summer reading program. (MES)

Describes successful public relations efforts in 23 Illinois public libraries. Highlights include fundraising efforts; innovative program design; community involvement; media coverage; referendum promotions; student reading initiatives; and local business involvement. (LRW)

A program designed by the Palatine (Illinois) Public Library to help children reading below grade level included weekly storytimes in the classrooms, parent/child programs in the library, and cable television programs on storytelling and illiteracy. Increased attention spans, higher levels of cooperation, and more positive attitudes toward reading…