Despite the recent turmoil in the U.S. economy, most libraries that were tracked by "Library Journal" won their referenda at a rate just slightly lower than 2007. Nearly three-quarters of operating referenda passed. Building referenda under $10 million passed at a whopping 85%, with those over $10 million batting slightly better than…

This is the first in a projected series of articles by a library design consultant on the design of new facilities for the Calcasieu Parish (Louisiana) Library System. The overall plan for new buildings, additions, and remodeling is described; budgeting, scheduling, and background planning are discussed; and project goals are explained. (LRW)

Provides an update on progress from the Lake Charles (Louisiana) library building project. Design activities related to selecting colors and checking drawings and samples are described; reasons for changes in original plans are discussed; and floor plans for nine of the buildings are included. (LRW)

This article describes how librarians stepped up to the plate to rescue materials and meet the needs of thousands of uprooted evacuees from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, employing their unique skills and resources to put forth a humane and herculean effort. In Houston and Austin, Texas; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Memphis; Fayetteville, Arkansas; and…

In this article, the author describes how the New Orleans Public Library (NOPL) struggled with a fraction of its former staff, limited hours, and a massive fundraising challenge after Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005. While previously 171 people staffed locations, only 40 employees plus a smaller--and shifting--cadre of…

A statement of goals, guidelines, and standards for public libraries in the state was developed by the Standards Study Committee, Public Library Section, of the Louisiana Library Association. The goals include the educational, informational, recreational, cultural, and service roles of the library. The guidelines are a detailed description of…

The Louisiana State Library reviewed its Pilot Library Program to determine its effect on future library development in state institutions. The program was a cooperative endeavor between the state library, an individual institution, and the state agency responsible for administering this institution. Mental, charitable, and penal institutions were…

This report identifies specific inadequacies in Louisiana public library services, resources, facilities, and personnel. It also identifies the people who are to be served, and reveals the geographical, sociological, economic, and educational barriers to the expanded use of libraries. Finally, it presents specific goals and objectives as part of…

This document presents the five year library plan for public libraries in Louisiana. It identifies the specific inadequacies in public library services, resources, facilities, and personnel; identifies the people who are to be served; reveals the geographical, sociological, economic, and educational barriers to the expanded use of libraries; and…

Libraries in Louisiana strengthen the economy and serve the people. Libraries and their employees play a significant role in the Louisiana infrastructure, consuming state goods and services, complementing educational institutions, creating a literate citizenry, and providing cost effective access to information for business, industry, government…