Describes the current concept of information literacy as a survival skill and suggests that public libraries can play an important role in its spread if they develop some nontraditional practices and make alliances with other agencies. (EAM)

Summarizes events at an OCLC-sponsored conference at which three major issues were addressed: (1) how public libraries will improve access to services and resources; (2) how public librarians will interact with users and what skills/attitudes they will require; and (3) the impact of interlibrary cooperation in light of changes in society and…

Summarizes the highlights of a report on the results of a 1989 survey conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to obtain current information on the availability and usage of services for children in public libraries. The design of the questionnaire and unasked questions for future research are mentioned. (EAM)

Surveys conducted in 142 urban public libraries examined customer satisfaction, comparisons with other libraries, and factors affecting satisfaction. Overall, customers were satisfied with their libraries but experienced different levels of satisfaction based on convenience, availability of materials and information, and services facilitating…

Discussion of the present deterioration in public services focuses on indigent and homeless library patrons and the Kreimer v. Morristown litigation. Issues of access and intellectual freedom are addressed, First Amendment rights are discussed, and implications of this case for libraries' roles as public forums are examined. (five references) (LRW)

Public libraries implementing public access to the Internet are faced with making new usage policies. This study examined 75 public library Internet access policies and identifies 26 policy elements. Finds consensus in disclaimers for libraries, parental responsibility for children, warnings about potentially offensive material, and loss of…

Although preservation is typically considered a concern of academic and special libraries only, many inexpensive and cost-effective preservation methods exist that public librarians should implement. Discusses why and how public libraries should preserve and outlines preservation and disaster mitigation tips. Lists supplies for disaster…

Describes tools that enable people with disabilities to access print information, including optical character recognition, synthetic voice output, other input devices, Braille access devices, large print displays, television and video, TDD (Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf), and Telebraille. Use of technology by libraries to meet mandates…

Discusses the content of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and how it will affect libraries, particularly public libraries, in the areas of employment and public accommodations. Weaknesses of the ADA are addressed, and librarians' roles in providing equal access use are emphasized. (14 references) (LRW)

A review of relevant library literature suggests that public library service to lesbian, gay, and bisexual people is poor. Offers ten suggestions to improve library services to these groups and discusses user studies; access, including classification and cataloging; library holdings; and social responsibility versus professional neutrality.…

Plots trends in the growth of Internet use. Discusses pornography on the Web, using filters, and the ALA response. Reports results of a survey of Internet availability within Pennsylvania public libraries. Findings indicate more than 90% of respondents offer access to the Internet, nearly 80% do not use filters, and 50% attempt to control access…

Examines how the libraries of Dade, Broward, and Collier counties have responded with user-centered services to meet the diverse needs of South Florida's Hispanic population. The services are tailored to each system's population, provide services integral to ongoing operations, establish outreach efforts, and bring library services to the people.…

The Dallas Public Library surveyed 21 surrounding public library systems to help identify barriers that limit children's use of public libraries. Describes identified barriers, examines causes of the barriers, and offers possible solutions. Tables present study results and list discontinued and current library outreach programs. (JMV)

After 10 years of experience, the Santa Monica Public Library (SMPL) advocates e-mail reference as an essential service that provides a personalized, convenient, and accessible service for a growing constituency. Discussion includes e-mail reference service parameters and challenges and opportunities. Presents suggestions for public libraries just…

Examines the gap between developing communication technologies available to the public and the public's ability to employ them. Highlights include the federal government's policy on universal Internet access; factors that negatively affect public library involvement in Internet access; and elements involved in clarifying the role of public…