The recent resurgence of interest outside the library field in independent study and the development of formal programs for nontraditional study provide new opportunities for public libraries to serve the independent learner. (Author)

A lighthearted expose of non-typical patrons and their use and abuse of the reference librarian. (JAB)

Examines current developments by public libraries in the area of services designed to meet the information needs of female clientele. (FM)

Libraries must provide more than the usual reference services by taping community information sources such as social agencies, religious organizations, local clubs and societies, local businesses, and residents who have special knowledge. The library must also take an active, rather than passive, role in delivering information. (LS)

This study explored the relationship between expanded information and referral (I&R) services and traditional reference services in public libraries in North Carolina. Results show librarians feel I&R services should be limited to those closely related to traditional reference services. Other I&R services typically provided by social…

Examines library services to Hispanic Americans in general, with reference to the predominantly Hispanic community served by the public library at Fabens, Texas. The concepts of ethnic competence, cultural awareness, and cross-cultural service are discussed in this context. (18 references) (MES)

Discusses the special collections and archival materials often found in medium-sized public libraries which should be fully used by historical researchers. It is suggested that public libraries need to advertise their collections which are of historical interest and to be more aware of the needs of the historical researcher. (Author/JL)

This survey of public library use in Arthur, Illinois, reveals that 14 percent of nearby Amish population have purchased nonresident, family library cards. Comparison with rural populations in downstate Illinois and library use in Ohio Amish settlements suggests changes in Amish culture and role of public libraries near Amish settlements. Includes…

Refutes several popular but ill-founded arguments against user education for public library patrons to suggest that the only real issue is the extent of library involvement. This adaptation from a soon-to-be-published book on library user education includes seven references. (RAA)

As background for defining public library adult services in the 1980s the perceived role of the public library in the United States since its inception is summarized and changing definitions are analyzed. Data collection and analysis plans for the Adult Services in the Eighties Project are described. (EM)

Discussion of the homeless in American public libraries focuses on harmless individuals who may be considered nuisance by library staff/patrons. Highlights include literature about problem library patrons, national problem, social issues, major themes (offense to others and library staff, balancing rights, and elitism), and implications for…

Examines two issues to determine how they affect delivery of consumer health information: (1) Who is responsible for disseminating consumer health information, and what role should public and health science libraries play? (2) Should librarians (public or health science) provide medical reference works for general public? Thirty-five references…

A survey of 180 small businesses in the London, Ontario (Canada) area examined the role of the library in providing information. Found that small businesses mainly obtained information through informal sources: customers; suppliers; and friends, associates, and relatives. Concludes that public libraries should network and promote an image of the…

Describes a survey of public librarians that examined their understanding and use of bibliographic instruction and their beliefs about the role of instruction in reference services. No consensus was found, but respondents' views seemed to be mediated by training in bibliographic instruction, library size, and the library's policy on user…

Discussion of a statement of goals and objectives for reference department staff is based on an informal survey of reference managers in academic and public libraries and professional literature of planning. Strategies for developing statements (role of manager, arriving at goals, setting priorities, developing objectives) are described. Fifteen…