The diverse histories of the public libraries in the towns of Bonne Terre, Desloge, Farmington, Flat River, and Leadwood (Missouri) are presented. Each library is examined individually from its inception through its first few years of existence. Emphasis is placed not only on the tasks undertaken by the newly formed libraries but also on the…

This study of the present and future library needs of residents of Stafford County, Virginia, with emphasis on the North Stafford areas, includes a review of demographic statistics and recommendations for library services. The currently increasing population is highly dependent on the automobile for transportation, and recommendations for library…

This report describes the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Library System's process of planning for a long-term literacy program for the metropolitan Oklahoma City/County area. The collection of data on community needs through interviews with local organizations and individuals and an extensive search of print and/or computerized information sources is…

Describes the growth and operations of the Crouch Neighbourhood Resource Centre, a multi-service, inter-agency, community information center housed in a branch library, and discusses its impact on library services. (CWM)

This study of the community of Norfolk, Virginia, and its public library system concentrates on an area of the city with a large Black community. The city planning process is explained, and the Model City Program described as a prime example of planning in such areas. The situation and programs of two agencies--a storefront public library and the…

This study of the public libraries in one county in central Iowa examines the workings of the Earlham, Truro, and Winterset libraries, and explores the elements in their respective communities which affect current library services and which have potential implications for future library planning. In addition to detailed profiles of the three…

A survey of community-based organizations in Malaysia determined that there was strong support for public library sponsored community information services (CIS). This article examines CIS activity in Malaysia; analyzes the survey findings; and proposes a program of action for developing a prototype CIS model and CIS guidelines and designing a…

Offers guidelines for planning fund raising events for small public libraries, with examples of activities that have been used successfully. Areas discussed include involving librarians and trustees as fund raisers; group discussion activities to encourage brainstorming; developing strategies based on community resources; and capital fund drive…

In order to assess community information needs and determine how the Burlington Public Library could plan to meet these needs, a community analysis project was undertaken. Specific objectives of the study were to: (1) prepare a descriptive statistical profile of the community; (2) describe the community environment, lifestyle, and information…

Discusses how a professional opinion poll can be used in public libraries to persuade politicians to support a more favorable allocation of resources. Provides a specific example and notes the importance of constant vigilance, informal regional pollsters, and using polls not sponsored by the library (AEF)

Describes guidelines issued by the Public Library Association which base evaluation of individual public libraries on community standards rather than national; identify eight basic roles of the library within the community; and provide a suggested process for libraries and communities to assess service needs and determine which activities to…

Funded by Wake County, the Wake County Public School System, and the city of Raleigh, the Athens Community/School Library is a pilot project intended to provide a full range of services, within budgetary and personnel limits, to the Athens community, as well as a full complement of service to students. The program, as planned, will include…

This study provides an overview of the community and the status of the library through an examination of the city of Virginia Beach, including its demography and needs, as well as the history, organization, administration, and financial support of both the Virginia Beach Public Library System and the Oceanfront Branch Library. The information is…

Discusses possibilities for growth and vitality for small libraries based on numerous examples of success stories. Topics include individual initiative; cooperative efforts; community involvement; and elements of success, including assessment, planning, and knowledge of the profession and willingness to learn. (LRW)

Several brief articles examine how library and information workers in Australia, along with community historians, are meeting the challenge of finding, cataloging, preserving, and communicating local history to their clients and the world beyond. Describes cooperative initiatives by state, local, and regional libraries; discusses how technology…