Describes Earphone English, a student club sponsored through a partnership between Berkeley High School and the Berkeley Public Library that offers students whose primary language is not English to practice their spoken and aural English skills. Discusses the audiobooks used in the program and the importance of multicultural content and age…

Discusses the role of the public library in adult lifelong learning and literacy programs in light of federal legislation. Topics include funding issues; the librarian's role in fostering attitudes of creation and recreation; and the role of education for librarianship in preparing graduates for work with adult lifelong learners. (Contains 49…

Discusses the roles academic and public libraries can play in the process of economic restructuring and development. A business school library in Hungary is described, and its role in economic restructuring and the education of future managers is discussed; and the role of public libraries in the United States is examined. (four references) (LRW)

Describes an automation project in Italy in which public libraries share functions such as cataloging and interlibrary loans by setting up a virtual network of microcomputers using TINlib software and exchange data using floppy disks. The operation of the system is described, problems encountered are identified, and future projects are discussed.…

Briefly discusses the development of two types of public libraries in Iran, i.e., those libraries under the administration of the Ministry of Islamic Culture and Guidance, and those administered by the Ministry of Education. The organization, staff, buildings and equipment, collections, and services of both types of libraries are described. (CLB)

Descriptions of the 12 specialized information centers of the National Agricultural Library (NAL) include subject coverage, information services provided, information technologies used, and staffing. The development of the Rural Information Center, a joint venture between the Extension Service and NAL to provide information services to local…

Describes the development of the Rural Issues Collection by the Central Kansas Library System, which is meant to deal with the problems of rural residents going through transition. The discussion covers the cooperative relationship developed between the library system and the extension service to make residents aware of library resources and…

Library profession must begin to accurately assess needs of older adults, expand library services to this population, and develop new services. Large-print library collections, as one service to elderly, will need to be increased in size and scope. Librarians and other service providers must work more closely in future. (Author/NB)

Briefly discusses the art of story telling and describes the development of this activity as an annual event at the Key Biscayne (Florida) Branch Library. Suggestions for planning a festival are offered, covering such areas as funding, logistics, weather considerations, publicity, volunteer personnel, added attractions, and working with guest…

Discussion of videocassette lending by public libraries emphasizes the need for a video policy and discusses: (1) needs assessment; (2) planning; (3) the new video client; (4) workload; (5) budget; (6) access for minors; and (7) competition with video stores. (four references) (MES)

Describes the design philosophy of an architect who remodels and builds public libraries. Reviews the author's work on the Cohoes Public Library (New York) and the Saratoga Springs Public Library (New York). Discusses how architects create memorable public buildings by reading about and understanding sites, by working closely with communities, and…

Reviews magazines suitable for young adults. Highlights include considering appropriate demographics and/or local standards when selecting titles; top-selling magazines to middle school, high school, and public libraries; ordering information; adult magazines for consideration; tabloids; and "zines", or personal newsletters/small…

Discusses public library revenues as a reflection of the general economic cycle during the 1980s. Public library expenditures and total local government expenditures from 1966 to 1990 are examined; percentage increases in library spending are compared with other specific city and county expenditures; and academic versus public library funding is…

Discusses the issues facing New York State public libraries regarding preservation of materials. Highlights include a review of related literature to examine the history, preservation methods, control of the library environment, education and training, organization, and government involvement; and results of a questionnaire that surveyed directors…

Presents statistics for construction activities in academic and public libraries for new buildings, additions, and renovations for July 1, 1994, to June 30, 1995, and a six-year cost summary for 1990-95. Determines that library administrators have found that it is more economical to renovate and add on than to start new construction. Also provides…