Examines the first libraries established for children in the United States between 1876 and 1900 and discusses various definitions of "children" and "library" as used by early writers. Specific examples of different configurations for children's libraries are described, from book collections without buildings, to separate rooms with professional…

Describes the various purposes of special collections of children's literature including their value to historians, sociologists, psychologists, artists and authors, their reference purposes, and their value in preserving regional artistic and literary heritages. A bibliography of journal articles, pamphlets, and brochures listed by state is…

Concludes that too often secondary school and public librarians merely accumulate works of fiction as they appear on the market rather than develop fiction collections. Librarians should use bibliographic aids, patron suggestions, and critical reviews to identify and purchase books to truly develop a collection. (RAA)

This study of ownership of films from 1975-83 Selected Films for Young Adults Committee (SFYA) lists concludes that New York state public and school film libraries do not own majority of SFYA titles: 29 percent were found in public library systems; 11 percent in Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) film collections. (EJS)

Uses general developmental framework to explain relationship of play, toys, and development of young children, and to support toy lending in libraries. An evaluative approach for library toy selection which is based on meeting children's psychological needs is suggested together with 11 titles to aid librarians in establishing toy-lending…