As more and more New Yorkers turn to digital books, Wikipedia and other online tools for information and entertainment, there is a growing sense that the age of the public library is over. But, in reality, New York City's public libraries are more essential than ever. Far from becoming obsolete, the city's three public library systems--Brooklyn,…

Discusses the number of libraries participating in literacy education, the commitment of libraries to literacy education, some factors influencing libraries' participation in such programs, and the present posture of literacy education. Sixteen references are listed. (Author/LLS)

Describes characteristics of dyslexics and contributions to understanding their special needs provided by Orton's research. Insights into needs of adult dyslexics based on classroom experiences are summarized, their implications for librarians are suggested, and provision of special training for tutors in Dane County (Wisconsin) public library…

Documents and journal articles featured in this nine-item annotated bibliography concern the role of library and information services in developing and expanding literacy at all levels in an increasingly information-oriented society. Citations were selected through a computer search of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) database.…

This examination of library involvement in adult literacy programs argues that public libraries had their roots in widespread concern for literacy in the 17th century and traces the development of such programs to the present. Changing definitions of literacy are summarized, and current issues in adult library services are discussed. (EM)

Examines the public library's role in adult literacy education in Australia in the past decade. Identifies areas of library services and staff training that need to change in response to the need of literacy programs. (SK)

Literacy being a major concern at state level preconferences, a theme conference was held to develop recommendations as to how libraries, in cooperation with other concerned agencies, can work toward solving the continuing problems of illiteracy in the U.S. Approximately 200 participants representing the library and educational communities, the…

Before specific role of the public library in eradicating illiteracy can be determined, each library must determine the extent of the problem in its community; determine what is already being done; and analyze the library's resources. Specific involvement and goals must be determined for services to teachers and students. (EJS)

Reported here are the results of a research project that examined the role of UK public libraries in addressing adult literacy including approaches and issues. Eight public libraries were selected as case studies and adult literacy provision was investigated using staff interviews. The interviews provided support for the role of public libraries…

Paradoxically, for reasons both philosophical and practical, public libraries are uniquely positioned to assist the 72 million Americans who, by virtue of being illiterate or marginally literate, are not ordinarily library users. A formal link between libraries and literacy can be traced back to the 1920s when the American Library Association…

Discussion of adult literacy and the role of public libraries focuses on the development of Adult Learning Centers based on experiences at the Hempstead Public Library (New York). The use of self-guided computer-assisted instruction is explained, and benefits are described. (LRW)

The role of libraries with regard to post-literate people is to provide suitable follow up reading material for these people so that they do not relapse into illiteracy. A public library service plays an indispensable part in any progressive educational system. It is particularly essential for the success of any literacy campaign and the adult…

The director of the Queens Borough Public Library (Jamaica, New York) examines the role of the public library in helping to prevent illiteracy and discusses innovative ways libraries can serve adult readers and learners, using the Queens model as an example. Includes a sidebar by Audrey Gorman "Toward a New Definition of Literacy." (AEF)

This report presents the steps and actions that public libraries may take to begin to meet the needs for literacy training in their individual communities. Outlined are three major approaches that libraries can consider when addressing the literacy needs of their communities: (1) initiating a literacy program; (2) cooperating with an existing…

Description of the California Literacy Campaign instituted by California State Library highlights statewide commitment to provide public library services to help adults attain English-language ability and local projects. Examples of several projects (e.g., Modoc County Adult Tutorial Program, Tri-City Literacy Coalition), and community-based…