Objectives of this survey were: (1) to review existing data on public library progress in Kansas since 1956 and to identify needs for further study, (2) to relate the data to public library standards and to the purpose of the Library Services and Construction Act, and (3) to recommend guidelines for planning for state-wide library development. It…

The following matters are encompassed in this study: (1) the state library--its internal activities, its relationships to the library structure of the state, and a projection of its future role and services in relation to its responsibilities statewide; (2) regional systems of cooperating libraries--a review and evaluation of current programs with…

This study sought to determine (1) the attendance of public librarians in government documents workshops, (2) the familiarity with and use of selection and reference tools, (3) the amount of money spent for the purchase of government publications, (4) the receipt of government publications from congressmen, and (5) if special courses in government…

This study of twenty-two Kansas state institutions was conducted to appraise the reading habits and educational level of institutional residents, the library resources and service needs of institutional residents and staff, and the possibilities for library service at institutions with security requirements. Conclusions are based on visits to…

An interlibrary loan telephone loop system operated by the Kansas City Regional Council for Higher Education libraries is briefly described. Chronological steps in establishing the loop are delineated, and early problems are identified. Expansion of the loop and special uses also are discussed. Conclusions about the operation and tips for others…

This survey of library personnel had the following objectives: (1) to determine the best subject areas in which to provide continuing educational opportunities for staff members, (2) to determine the level of subject content for each subject area, (3) to identify an expected participant enrollment for each level of each subject, and (4) to…

Of the 58 referenda held in search of capital funds for public library buildings in 1997, 49 were successful, and of the 67 referenda seeking operating funds, 55 were successful. Funding levels and voter approval rate are examined, and a sidebar describes a bond issue at the Topeka Public Library. (LRW)

Describes the use of focus groups to determine young adult needs in public libraries, based on experiences at the Johnson County Library system in Kansas City. Highlights include the benefits of focus groups over surveys, time involvement, how to design questions to ask, and compiling data. (LRW)

A survey was conducted of randomly selected school library media specialists participating in the Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, South Carolina, and Texas state "child choice" book award programs to identify any censorship taking place in these programs, and the attitudes of the library media specialists toward such censorship. In most…

A research project compiled information on the use of free and inexpensive materials in Kansas secondary schools. Forty-six media specialists responded to a questionnaire and checklist and provided data on four topics: 1) selection and acquisition of materials; 2) storage and retrieval systems used in handling materials; 3) subjects and formats of…