Discussion of the social roles of public libraries focuses on the public use of central libraries in Toronto and Vancouver. Results support the notion that central libraries fulfill ideals of public place, and that private market interests represent a threat to its role as a public place. (Contains 99 references.) (Author/LRW)

Results of this study evaluating library reference service indicate a statistically significant difference at the .05 level between obtrusive and unobtrusive evaluation methods. Library staff answer a greater proportion of questions correctly when they are aware of being evaluated. The 30 questions used, a report form, and references are included.…

This analysis of current adult reading habits, library use during previous year, and related childhood experiences of both the respondents and their parents reveals the importance of social learning and parents as primary agents in the development of reading and library habits. Twenty-three references are included. (EJS)