Personal experiences of a librarian's 1982 trip to the People's Republic of China are related, noting impressions of Chinese communism, encounters with the Chinese, the National Library in Beijing, a visit to a branch library of the public library system, and the Shanghai Public Library. (EJS)

Discusses the services of the San Francisco Public Library with respect to the effects of Proposition 13 and inflation, and describes the roles of the Main Library, the Business Branch, the Chinatown Branch, and the Communications Center. (CHC)

Describes the current status of the Los Angeles Public Library System comprising the central library, 62 branch libraries, and 5 bookmobiles. Financial problems, the destruction of the Hollywood regional library by fire, branch library changes, and the central library building are discussed. (EJS)

A brief history of the Dallas Public Library, which first opened in 1901, highlights new central library facilities erected in 1955 and 1982; the development of branch libraries; leadership of directors Rosa Leeper, Cleora Clanton, Jim Meeks, and Lillian Bradshaw; and library programs, publications, and community outreach efforts. (EJS)

Describes the Booktech 2000 project that was developed at the Denver Public Library as a new work concept to improve acquisitions procedures and customer service. The short-term goal of expanding collections for new branch libraries is discussed, and new relationships with vendors are explained. (LRW)

Describes the Chicago Public Library model for regional libraries and discusses the planning and implementation of the regional concept by three public libraries. Topics discussed include advantages of the regional approach, criteria for location, levels of services offered, and guidelines for deciding whether the regional approach is appropriate…

Describes programs and services offered by the 20-branch Columbus and Franklin County Public Library System, highlighting budgetary considerations, library administration, effect of technological advancements (i.e., circulation of videotape recorders, automated circulation system), innovative library programs, and contributions made by library…

Profile of the Houston Public Library, which was established in 1904, covers the opening of a new central library building in 1976, library services and collections, the building of branch libraries including a portable mall facility, information and referral programs to ethnic groups and business, and development of library automated systems.…