This revised edition of competencies for librarians serving children in public libraries was developed by the American Library Association. Highlights include knowledge of client group; administrative and management skills; communication skills; materials and collection development; skills in developing library programs, advocacy, public…

Chronicles the history of the Dallas Public library and the life of Siddie Joe Johnson, a children's librarian at the library from 1938 to 1965. Topics addressed include library collections and facilities; Johnson's innovative programing for children, including creative writing groups and book parades; and her publications. (eight references) (MES)

Briefly discusses competencies needed by librarians serving children in public libraries and presents a list of recommended competencies in the following areas: knowledge of client group; administrative and management skills; communication skills; materials and collection development; programing skills; advocacy, public relations, and networking…

Describes a survey of user satisfaction among 300 young adult patrons at 2 urban libraries, 1 with special staff and programs and 1 without. Issues involved in specialization and the study methodology are presented. Nine conclusions about the effectiveness of young adult librarians and other services are drawn from the survey. (Contains 19…

Discussion of oral narrative tradition and storytelling focuses on the role of librarian-storytellers. A story of children's librarians and their storytelling experiences at the Los Angeles Public Library is described, the process of acquiring and developing storytelling skills and roles is examined, and implications for administrators and…

Describes two current studies in New South Wales (Australia) that examined the position of children's librarian in public libraries. One developed a profile of children's librarians and investigated how they rated themselves as managerial leaders; the other examined the recruitment and retention of children's and young adult librarians. (five…

Discusses the importance of librarians being advocates for children and fighting for free and open access to printed and electronic information. Discusses Banned Book Week; intellectual freedom; the American Library Association's four main concerns related to the Internet--access, quality, education, and local control; and the importance of…

Examines visions of libraries in 23 science fiction novels aimed at young adult readers. Aspects of librarianship explored include physical environment or building; reference and user services; networking and data transfer; librarians; electronic publishing and material format; and copyright, user fees, and freedom of access to information.…

Discusses sexuality education in the United States; public support for sexuality education; and the role of the library and librarian in providing sexuality information. Includes tips for providing sexuality information, which focus on creation of a supportive environment; material selection; community and national resources; and national…

A survey of 117 young people (ages 4 to 15) in 4 public libraries in New Haven, Connecticut, examined children's attitudes toward librarians. Responses to questions about career aspirations and perceived qualities of librarians, as well as children's descriptions of their own drawings of librarians indicated a generally positive view. (10…

Discussion of public library support systems for at-risk teens focuses on the Bay Area Library and Information System (BALIS) that was developed to improve library services to at-risk teenagers in the San Francisco Bay area. Highlights include needs assessment; staff training; intervention models; and project evaluation. (10 references) (LRW)

Examines the history of the homeschooling movement in the United States, the reasons parents choose to homeschool their children, the general profile of homeschoolers, and the responsibility that public libraries and librarians have in serving the homeschooling population. Suggests ways librarians can better serve homeschoolers. (AEF)

Suggests theoretical benefits and limitations of hypertext when used by children and explores how hypertext may differ from the traditional print format in terms of the reading process. Highlights include hypertext books; interactive fiction; reading and writing theories and hypertext; and youth librarians and hypertext. (Contains 21 references.)…

Discusses the legacy of the work of Margaret Edwards for young adult librarianship. Highlights include accepting adult books for young adults; promoting reading and emphasizing the role of librarians in encouraging reading; meaningful outreach services; and youth participation. (LRW)

Explores some of the reasons for spotlighting Spanish language and Hispanic Internet sites on libraries' public access computers and recommends some sites for use by librarians working with Latino youth. (Author)