A survey was conducted in January 1997 to determine security issues of Ohio public libraries. The survey was distributed to 100 libraries of differing sizes with a 70% completion rate. The following questions were asked: (1) Do you believe that security is a problem at your library? (2) Do you believe that mutilation of periodicals is a problem at…

Explores the legal ramifications of malpractice among librarians and the possible impact on services due to fear of being sued. Topics include identification of potential malpractice areas; cooperative electronic reference services; use of reference standards; insurance; contract; disclaimer; updating library collections; using Internet resources;…

Presents an interview with American Library Association award winner and children's librarian Jane Botham covering such issues as library relations with the community, relations with other agencies, dealing with reactions to controversial books, library staffing, developing children's appreciation for the library, and children's need for adult…

Discusses policies and attitudes prevalent in public libraries that encourage female users and discourage male users. The lack of technical books that may appeal more to men is examined, the lack of appropriate reviews is described, subconscious classism is suggested, and differences in fiction preferences are discussed. (two references) (LRW)

Investigates the effects of participatory management techniques advocated by the Public Library Association through a study of long-range planning at four public libraries that focused on staff members' views of the planning process, types and levels of staff participation, and attitudes about the effectiveness and consequences of the planning…

Five of the six papers in this collection focus on public library services, collection development problems, and involvement in literacy campaigns in developing countries; the sixth paper is concerned with public library services in Norway. (1) In "Big Cities, Its Inhabitants and Public Libraries Systems," May Brooking Negrao examines…

Describes changes currently taking place in the Seattle Public Library system. Topics discussed include outreach programs such as literacy programs and afterschool programs for latchkey children; budget cuts and the search for new sources of revenue; staff attitudes, including resistance to change; programs to encourage reading; and automated…

Examines the past record of public libraries in serving United States Latinos. Considers current conditions warranting renewed attention and proposes new directions for future library services to this community. Discusses strategic plans, preparation of children's librarians, new support personnel, the technological gap, recurrent questions, and…

This report presents the findings of a telephone survey of 1,181 adults and 390 librarians which was conducted in 1991 to elicit information on their opinions of services libraries ought to provide; the kinds of materials that should be available to certain people; who should be responsible for libraries; groups who might be involved in…

Describes a survey of user satisfaction among 300 young adult patrons at 2 urban libraries, 1 with special staff and programs and 1 without. Issues involved in specialization and the study methodology are presented. Nine conclusions about the effectiveness of young adult librarians and other services are drawn from the survey. (Contains 19…

Presents results of a recent survey of over 100 public and academic libraries about pricing options from online companies. Most options fall into three categories: pay-as-you-go, fixed-rate, and user-based. Results are discussed separately for public and academic libraries and for consortial discounts. Trends in pricing options preferred by…

This theme issue focuses on "creating the library's future" through creative library management. Seven articles provide a variety of perspectives on particular library management styles and approaches to library issues. The planning process, creativity in the work place, and innovations in libraries are discussed. (MAB)

Discusses the design of combined school/public libraries and includes the views of three high school librarians and two elementary school librarians who helped create combined libraries. Topics include physical design issues, including entrances, lighting, and location; funding; cost benefits; contracts; signage; and parking. (LRW)

The participant evaluation of an intensive, research-based institute about emergent literacy and public library service for young children demonstrates current "best practice" strengths and weaknesses. Children's librarians indicate which services, attitudes and skills, organizational structures, and resources are being implemented in…

Discusses results of a national survey of school library media specialists and children's librarians in public libraries about reactions to their library facilities. Complaints are addressed, including lack of space, poor design, and shelving; the most heavily used areas are ranked; accommodations for technology are examined; and further research…