There are no foolproof solutions to Internet access in libraries. This article lists selected library solutions, what not to do, and what to do: pick a common-sense approach, focus on customer service, keep an open mind, avoid accepting or repeating hearsay, and find common ground. Includes highlights of the Orange County (FL) Library System's…

Suggests that libraries are doing children a disservice by not providing them with a reviewed/evaluated version of the Web. Discusses children's use of the library; the nature of information on the World Wide Web; and children's information seeking skills. Describes a simple method that can be used to protect children while still protecting adult…

This book examines the ways in which children's librarians can manage their services so collections and programs reach the intended audience. In the introduction to this second edition, the author considers recent changes in demographics, economics, social patterns, media and technology trends, and consequent changing emphases in managing…

Explores the issue of intellectual freedom and the role of the library in the community, and the extent to which community attitudes and values should influence library policy. A specific incident involving a public library exhibit of materials on gay rights in Durham, North Carolina, is described. (CLB)

To improve its service, the Offa (Nigeria) township library conducted a user study. The investigation found that 51% of users were students ages 19 and below and that 78% were males. Most users wanted extended hours, improved newspaper collections, more accurate shelving, and a consistent lending policy for all materials and users. (PEN)

Public libraries implementing public access to the Internet are faced with making new usage policies. This study examined 75 public library Internet access policies and identifies 26 policy elements. Finds consensus in disclaimers for libraries, parental responsibility for children, warnings about potentially offensive material, and loss of…

Although preservation is typically considered a concern of academic and special libraries only, many inexpensive and cost-effective preservation methods exist that public librarians should implement. Discusses why and how public libraries should preserve and outlines preservation and disaster mitigation tips. Lists supplies for disaster…

Examines literature on latchkey children and public libraries, and reviews solutions to this issue. Presents four recommendations to help public libraries clarify their role in serving latchkey children: educate personnel regarding appropriate services, develop a written policy, reevaluate programs and services, become involved in a community task…

Discusses the mission of public libraries in light of the decision to purchase Madonna's book "Sex." Three viewpoints are presented: a critic of selection policies that are too broad in the name of intellectual freedom; the director of a small public library with a limited budget; and a library historian. (Contains 18 references.) (LRW)

Describes characteristics of core competencies. Examines the competencies a librarian should possess. Discusses types of competence and reviews advantages of developing and improving core competencies. Looks at core competencies in terms of the major service areas of public libraries. Presents several steps for building core competencies.…

Comments on the results of a survey that asked library administrators throughout the US if Spanish-speaking librarians were needed and how to recruit them most effectively for library schools. Numerous replies reflected racist attitudes, discrimination, and insensitivity to the Spanish-speaking community. (VT)

Discusses the issue of intellectual freedom as it relates to videotape collections and the free circulation of tapes to patrons, particularly children. Research on the effects on children of viewing violence is reviewed briefly. Development of a procedure for handling complaints and clear guidelines for children's access to videos are recommended.…

This paper discusses fee-based services in public libraries. The first section examines examples of charging for public library services in three countries: the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland; and New Zealand. The intention is to consider the circumstances in which charging was introduced, the public's response in terms of the effect on…

A discussion with the staff of the Internet Public Library (IPL), which began as a project at the University of Michigan, highlights its role in supplementing local public library services; classification; collection development policies; and the impact of legislation, copyright, and universal service on IPL. A sidebar presents IPL user…

The public library has become the locus for public anxiety about children's access to objectionable material on the Internet. Discusses Judith Krug's (Director of the American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom) defense of unrestricted access, acceptable use, and filtering software. Highlights six filtering programs (client and…