The latest and most comprehensive assessment of public librarians' education and career paths to date, this important volume reports on a large-scale research project performed by authors Jose-Marie Griffiths and Donald W. King. Presented in collaboration with the Office for Research and Statistics (ORS), the book includes an examination of trends…

This report marks the first release of library statistics data from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It contains data on state library agencies in the 50 states and the District of Columbia for state fiscal year (FY) 2006. The data were collected through the State Library Agencies (StLA) Survey, the product of a cooperative effort…

Co-author of the popular titles "Booktalking Bonanza" and "The Early Literacy Kit", Betsy Diamant-Cohen brings together 18 examples of successful outreach partnerships that children's librarians and administrators can adapt to their own situations. Contributors from the U.S and Canada explain how they partnered with schools,…

This description of the renovation of the youth services department of a public library covers planning, implementation, and such considerations as furniture delivery, utility lines, and publicity. Several recommendations for libraries considering major changes are offered, and one reference is listed. (MES)

This discussion of the role of the public library youth services manager emphasizes the importance of personnel management skills, and notes the need for attention to personnel management in library education. (10 references) (MES)

Presents ideas for public library family programs and discusses some of the advantages and disadvantages of including parents in the programs. (MES)

This discussion of the reutilization of existing library space reviews the decision process and considerations for implementation. Two case studies of small public libraries which reassigned space to better use are provided, including floor plans. (1 reference) (MES)

Reviews financing options available to Illinois public libraries for construction or expansion, including general obligation bonds, mortgage funds, building reserve funds, building fund levies, lease back arrangements, sale of air or ground development rights, interest on special funds, gift funds and grants, Library Service and Construction Act…

This examination of the nature of communication between public library youth services managers and upper management stresses the need for middle managers to develop upward communication skills. Parallels are drawn with such games as "Risk,""Clue," and "Cat's Cradle," and 13 references are listed. (MES)

This description of the development of a discipline policy at the Downers Grove (Illinois) Public Library recounts discipline problems, the process of creating the policy, and its effects. The text of the rules of behavior and a sample page from the procedures manual, which provides practical guidelines for enforcement, are included. (MES)

Description of the planning and implementation of a microcomputer-based local area network in the Northbrook (Illinois) Public Library highlights: (1) applying for a grant; (2) network design; (3) the bidding process; (4) installation; (5) implementing the network; and (6) problems and cautions. (MES)

This article enumerates factors which created demand for fee-based information service (commercial databases, competition for proprietary information in business world, effectiveness of librarians) and relates experiences at two public libraries. Sources of business, value of advertising, techniques of selling, and hiring and deployment of staff…

Describes the responsibilities and recommended qualifications of a youth services department head. The importance of attention to statistics and library policy is emphasized. (MES)

This description of a program in which public libraries serve as sites for mediation sessions discusses the advantages of mediation over judicial proceedings in resolving disputes in the neighborhood and workplace, the role of the library in this program, and the effects on the library's relationship with the community. (CLB)

Describes the damage and salvage efforts resulting from the burning of the Los Angeles Central Library in 1986, and makes several recommendations for fire and arson prevention measures and contingency salvage plans. (CLB)