Amidst calls for libraries to regain their socially progressive roots and connections to community, this study analyzes two interwoven cases of nonformal, community education in northeastern Nova Scotia, initiated by libraries that aimed to revive those links. Through a reading circle and a people's school, librarians used historical materials on…

The report presents case studies of 7 community action projects which were undertaken by New York communities with populations under 10,000 and which show how local leaders can improve the quality of life in their communities. The report describes the background, initiation, expansion, implementation, consequences, and highlights of the projects,…

This guide is based on findings of a year-long study undertaken by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to evaluate Institute-sponsored programs for youth aged 9-19 between 1998 and 2003, and discussion with the IMLS Youth Action Committee and practitioners about the kind of information needed for planning and implementing effective…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) helps museums and libraries preserve our cultural heritage, enhance learning and innovation, and develop staff capacities to provide the best in service to our communities. IMLS has a long-standing commitment to funding grants and sponsoring research on the subject of how both preschool and…

Public will--which effectively positions libraries as the critical educational, social, cultural, and recreational resource they so clearly are--goes beyond better promotion, clearer communication, or more partnerships to infect the people in a community with the bug to act on their notion that libraries are good and to turn belief into action.…

This collection of essays focuses on group social and political action as it relates to libraries and their environments. The introduction discusses the group-concept approach to studying library and information science. The essays are case studies of interest group politics, including: (1) the imprisonment of a librarian who refused to give…

Services of community-based agencies, besides information and referral, are described. Their assessment, counseling, advocacy, and outreach services are designed to aid adult learners. Three case examples are discussed: the Community Based Educational Counseling for Adults (CBECA) program in Wisconsin, Boston's WINNERS program, and two…

Community networks are electronic information services that enable members of communities to inform one another about current issues. Discusses how community networks operate, what they do, budget constraints and innovation, problems and shortcomings, causes and solutions, and where libraries fit in. Highlights Charlotte's Web, a community network…

Distance education is rapidly becoming the global trend for lifelong learning. This book emphasizes the importance of conceptual understanding of online distance learning and focuses on theoretical and practical challenges of online teaching and learning. It illustrates lifelong learning strategies and how technology can support the course…

The availability and nature of open learning materials and centers in Great Britain were examined in a study that focused on the following: the open learning market; learning materials; commercial suppliers; basic skills materials; information technology materials; online learning; information technology and tutors; qualifications; prices;…

Eight papers are presented from the 1995 CAUSE conference track on strategic planning issues faced by managers of information technology at colleges and universities. The papers include: (1) "Can Small Colleges Afford To Be Technology Leaders? Can They Afford Not To Be? (Martin Ringle and David Smallen); (2) "Strategic Planning Across…

In order to meet today's financial challenges, libraries must be ready, willing, and able to enter the arena of politics and compete for scarce public funding. This book offers librarians, library workers, trustees, and friends' organizations practical advice, case studies, and step-by-step guidance for evaluating the existing local political…