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)

Describes the organization and coordination of a public library's move from an old Carnegie building to a new facility. The planning process, publicity and communication, team concept, color-coding scheme, and use of software and volunteer help are covered. (EM)

Reviews demographic and health data on older Americans and describes services at the Topeka Public Library that are targeted to serve adults aged 75 and older, including selection and delivery of books to shut-ins and nursing homes, materials and information for the visually handicapped, and special programing. (8 references) (MES)

Reviews the economic theory of property rights and explores four applications of the transaction cost theory of property rights and free distribution in the economics of information: (1) copying technology; (2) computer software and copy protection; (3) satellite television and encryption; and (4) public libraries. (56 references) (MES)

Presents standards for reference services developed by the Suburban Library System (Illinois) and discusses the effects of the standards on youth services. Standards for a written reference plan, reference staff, reference sources, and evaluation are included. (11 references) (MES)

Examines the implications for children's library services of changes in family life and structure over the past 10 years. Library clientele, materials, hours, location, interior design, and services offered are discussed. (MES)

Describes a cooperative project between the Hinsdale (Illinois) Public Library and the local schools to publish a literary magazine. Goals, selection of an editorial board, rules for contributions, promotion, a cover design contest, format, selection and editing of entries, and the layout and printing process are discussed. Sample entries are…

A survey of 125 public library directors in Indiana laid the groundwork for a future study of change in the public library. Data were gathered on the background characteristics of the libraries and directors; directors' perceptions of change; and utilization of formal planning processes. A copy of the questionnaire is appended. (27 references)…

Reports results of a survey of library patrons which investigated: (1) reasons patrons choose the public library for popular nonprint materials; (2) whether patrons using the library for nonprint materials tend to use print materials during their visits; and (3) how use of nonprint materials affects patrons' perceptions of their libraries. (MES)

Review of trends in public library buildings covers cycles in building activity; financial support; site selection; expansion, remodeling, or conversion of existing buildings; size of buildings; and such architectural concerns as flexible space, lighting, power, accommodation of computer systems, heat and ventilation, fire protection, security,…

Presents biographies of four leaders in public library service to young adults: Mabel Williams, Margaret Scoggin, Jean Roos, and Margaret Edwards. They are described as pioneers who worked to obtain recognition for and establish young adult work and who can serve as inspirations for librarians today. (EM)

Setting up a public library bulletin board system is described as a way to attract young adult users as well as to foster awareness and use of electronic information media. Step-by-step guidelines cover hardware needed, including modems, types of software available, designing the system's contents, and maintenance and security. (EM)

Examines development of social libraries (formed by associations for member use) in New England and rest of United States before 1850, and social and public library growth between 1850 and 1900. Opinions of contemporaries and seven aspects of American life indicating reluctance to abandon social library are highlighted. (27 references) (EJS)

This essay aimed at large and medium-sized public libraries discusses library administration as a low-level function meant to support, rather than rule, the nonadministrative staff; management and administration as separate functions; the delegation of responsibility; and tasks of the administrator. (EJS)

Description of the production of a "Software Directory Wall Chart" at the North-Pulaski Branch of Chicago Public Library focuses on three major steps: organization of the software collection, use of a database management system to input desired data, and construction of the chart. Storage of diskettes is also discussed. (EJS)