Several instruments previously validated for use in school library research were tested for their appropriateness in the context of public libraries' summer reading programs for youth. The researchers were also interested in whether the connection between perceived competence in one's own information skills and perceived competence in one's own…

In July 2008, over 14,000 public libraries throughout the U.S. received, free of charge, a set of fourteen Audio Guides introducing them to The Big Read. Since 2007, when the National Endowment for the Arts and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, in partnership with Arts Midwest, debuted The Big Read, the program has awarded grants to…

Issues 256 through 265 of "Fast Facts" from the Library Research Service present data collected from libraries in Colorado and throughout the nation. Topics addressed in these "Fast Facts" from 2008 include computer usage by public library patrons, Colorado summer reading programs, children's' use of public libraries, and the…

A study investigated the reading achievement of participants in the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library's incentive-based summer reading program. Subjects, 44 first, second, and third grade students from 23 different local public schools who had participated in the summer reading program at 4 inner-city brances of the public library,…

Briefly summarizes findings from a report from the Office of Educational Research and Improvement, U.S. Department of Education, on a survey of 846 public libraries. The study focused on their children's services and resources, including children's access to materials, cooperation with schools, and summer reading programs and story hours. (LRW)