Discussion of laser videodiscs for library collections covers selection, finding reviews, suppliers, cost, preservation, and security. Sidebars define laserdisc terms and list several recommended titles. (MES)

Discusses vendor approval plans for library collection development and describes uses of various vendor plans by public libraries. Opening day collection services are described, vendor's book inventory databases are explained, title selection and the use of book reviews is discussed, and problems with out-of-print titles are considered. (LRW)

Facing a major budget crunch, the Hawaii State Public Library System awarded a five and one half-year, $11.2 million contract to a vendor (Baker & Taylor) for collection development. Hawaii librarians argue that outsourcing sacrifices local expertise and a central part of their professional identity. Discusses the controversy from opposing…

Discusses the increase in circulation over the past seven years at the Queens Borough Public Library. Improvements in collections, promotion, and services responsible for this increase are examined, and circulation data are presented in graphs. (MES)

This article on collection development focuses on English as a Second Language (ESL) materials for public libraries. Highlights include supporting local school curriculum; independent study materials; criteria for selection; weeding guidelines; Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); and an annotated bibliography that includes printed…

Describes the collection development plan implemented by the Tulsa City-County Library system to support their perception of the role of the library as providing more than recreational reading. Topics discussed include raising staff consciousness, rejecting demand buying, evaluating the collection, streamlining acquisitions, and procedures for…

Discusses DVD (digital video disc) technology and considers its future possibilities. Highlights include laserdiscs, DVDs in academic-library collections, public-library experiences with DVDs, and problems with changes in video formats and technological obsolescence. (LRW)

Describes how the New Main San Francisco Public Library was created in spite of budget cuts and threats of shutting down library branches. Discusses community support, the political approach to fund raising, collection development and increased patronage, and linking branch libraries to the New Main's system. (AEF)

The most surprising response from the "Library Journal" 2002 survey of 150 public libraries is that circulation is up after declines for the past couple of years. Budgets are holding their own, with a slight increase overall of 3%. Aggressive merchandising, promotion, and better circulation systems point to success. (AEF)

Discussion of videocassette lending by public libraries emphasizes the need for a video policy and discusses: (1) needs assessment; (2) planning; (3) the new video client; (4) workload; (5) budget; (6) access for minors; and (7) competition with video stores. (four references) (MES)

Discusses public interest in mathematics and offers an annotated selection of 54 math titles for public libraries. Most books are suitable for adults and older students. Books are listed in the following categories: collection development; reference; math anxiety; general mathematics; for parents and kids; for students; study guide series;…

Argues that recent decisions to outsource library collection development are not isolated incidents but attempts to privatize whole core services and even management of libraries. Examines three misconceptions about the private sector: that it can do it better and cheaper, that accountability to the marketplace is more effective than government,…

Describes the Pacific Northwest Conspectus Database, a regional resource assessment tool which includes information about library collections in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Use of the database by academic, public, and special librarians to better manage their collections and to coordinate planning and purchasing with other…

A survey of 486 public libraries found that audiovisual (AV) budgets have increased 53% in the last five years. Provides data on average size of AV collections; budget break downs; circulation; audiobook, video, and music CD purchases; popular authors and titles in abridged and unabridged audiobooks; and problems with audiobook, video, and music…

Describes one library's development of a CD-ROM lending collection. Topics include survey results, policies, procedures, troubleshooting, and promotion. A sidebar contains a brief bibliography of journals which review CD-ROMs and publishers who provide CD samplers. (AEF)