Traditional libraries are being redefined. They are not only places to access books in print, but are also rich resources for digital assets. As a result, technology training programs need to progress beyond basic "mouse and keyboard" in order to meet the ever-changing needs and demands of the public. As library collections transition to…

U.S. public libraries provide free public internet services to the communities that they serve, but require robust, high-speed broadband internet connections to continue meeting public demands. The 2008-2009 "Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study" ("PLFTAS") illustrates challenges that public libraries encounter in achieving broadband…

Summarizes the Richmond Public Library's (RPL's) experiences in development and provision of technology-based services. Describes RPL's approaches to technology-based services, including training, communicating benefits to the community, creating a community-based Web site and marketing. Explains benefits of Internet-based services to patrons,…

Reflects on the potency of libraries as community assets during the past 2000 years. Traces the preservation of knowledge in ancient libraries. Addresses ecclesiastical library development and the relatively recent rise of public and academic libraries; identifies their connections with their communities, and the relevance for today. Describes…

This analysis of the transformation of the Charles Sturt University Regional Archives from a library special collection to a multi-function regional repository highlights the importance of stakeholder interests in determining institutional configurations and collection development priorities. It also demonstrates the critical importance of…

This submission represents the views of a newly formed organisation known as Public Libraries Australia. Formed to aggregate the political, service and infrastructure capacity of Australia's 1510 (ABS June 2000) public libraries, Public Libraries Australia will support and represent public libraries on a national basis. Networked across Australia…

Examines alternatives to traditional library services being developed in Zimbabwe. Highlights include home libraries connected with literacy groups; the Rural Libraries and Resources Development Programme that develops community libraries, oral archives, and training manuals; mobile library services; culture houses; problems with donated books;…

This serial examines problems and possibilities in rural library delivery of reading materials and information services. Typical articles cover: (1) research findings on recent changes and industralization in rural America; (2) role of the rural librarian in community development; (3) cooperation between rural libraries and rural public schools;…

This second module in a three module program examines the types of materials and services that are available in a community information center or library and the tools or sources for obtaining them. The module covers: ways in which books and other materials are arranged and organized; descriptions of library catalogs and the basic information…

The process of selecting and maintaining the collection for the community consumes much of the staff's time in public libraries. Small libraries with fewer staff have less time for these activities. This handbook enables staff to use their time most efficiently while doing specific tasks; forms, checklists, and samples are used as guides. The main…

This manual resulted from a 2-year project to improve, develop, and expand public library and information services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. Designed to serve as a guide for tribal and community librarians who may lack professional training, the manual offers descriptions of library services, procedures, and management issues. An…