Public libraries are a key access point for community-based education for lifelong learners. Libraries link independent learners, materials, programs, and other community agencies, and provide a common touchstone for all segments of the population. The public library and its mission support lifelong learning through the acquisition and…

Six articles discuss librarians as mediators in special circumstances. Highlights include the reference librarian and the information paraprofessional; effective reference mediation for nontraditional public library users, including mentally impaired patrons and illiterate adults; the academic librarian's role in the education process; and…