Reviews the history of state library financial support and argues for direct state aid to all libraries which meet moderate standards. Recent judicial decisions are discussed in this context. (JVP)

If one wanted to win a library election in 2006, what would have been the mythical perfect referenda? For building referenda, the sweet spot was hit with measures over $10 million, on a ballot sometime between September and December, with no other items on the ballot, in a general election, for a library serving a population under 100,000. For the…

Reports that some local and regional censorship groups are backed financially by national religious groups. Examines their impact on public and school libraries, recounts their influences on federal legislation, and reviews the status of state legislation. A sidebar discusses the American Library Association's role in aiding librarians. (JMV)

Discussion of planning and legislation for the parallel development of libraries and information related industries. Proposed legislation for a pilot effort in New York State is outlined. (KP)

Reading habits as private or public affairs are discussed in this essay concerning the application of the right of privacy to library circulation records. Several related court cases and library exemptions granted by state legislatures in 17 states are noted. Twenty-six references are cited. (EJS)

This overview of current state legislative issues related to intellectual freedom covers attempts to impose filtering on library Internet access, new "harmful to minors" laws, community obscenity statutes, restrictions on video lending, and more. A sidebar highlights the work of a coalition to defeat a "harmful to minors" law…