The case of an indigent library patron recovering a judgment against a public library is used as a backdrop for discussing patron behavior policies in the public library. Highlights include First Amendment rights, the public library as an expressive forum, government rules, policy lessons from the case, and acceptable policies. (AEF)

A Problem Task Force from the Fairfax County Public Library worked with other county agencies such as the police and social services to redesign a "Problem Behavior Manual" and present a training module for staff to better prepare them to deal with socially ill patrons. (Author/AEF)

The Dallas Public Library surveyed 21 surrounding public library systems to help identify barriers that limit children's use of public libraries. Describes identified barriers, examines causes of the barriers, and offers possible solutions. Tables present study results and list discontinued and current library outreach programs. (JMV)

Identifies public library policies, programs, services, or practices that have ruined customer relations and offers suggestions on how they could have been avoided. Highlights include automated telephone answering systems; staff monitoring of computer use; self-service equipment, particularly photocopiers; release forms; staff parking; loan…

This handbook provides public libraries with a source of hints, ideas, and suggestions to increase the diversity of their personnel in a non-discriminatory manner and with equality in personnel policies. The guide includes the following sections: (1) Why This Handbook?; (2) Getting Started; (3) Policy Statement--creating a policy, examples, and…

In order to identify other libraries' policies regarding public access to personal computers, the Hudson Library and Historical Society sent a survey to the reference and/or informational services librarians in the 18 public libraries of the Cleveland (Ohio) Public Library Consortium. The purpose of the 32-item questionnaire was to determine if…

One public library's policy for the selection of adult and children's library materials is described. The library's collection interests are outlined and guidelines are given covering selection personnel, selection criteria, and selection sources for print and non-print materials. Problems involved in collection maintenance and the evaluation of…

This handbook focuses on intellectual freedom as it relates to school library media centers and public libraries. The purpose of this handbook is to help public libraries and school districts develop and adopt necessary policies and procedures that will build a solid foundation for intellectual freedom as part of the community and school climate…

Examines the pros and cons of providing access to the World Wide Web for library patrons as well as suggesting solutions to problems. Discusses the establishment of a library policy governing the use of the Web, as well as the importance of workshops and instructional materials on Web use in libraries. (Author/AEF)

Presents the research finding that collection development based on sound principles can ensure both better quality materials and increased use by teachers and students. Findings suggesting that collection development should be a cooperative enterprise framed by board- and school-approved guidelines are listed. (seven references) (EA)

Examines the impact of Libraries Online!, a Microsoft grant to provide technology to low-income populations, at High Point Library (Seattle, Washington). Discusses race relations among users, children helping children, computer lab programs for children, developing an Internet Use Policy, homework and reference services, and staff training and…

American Library Association Goal 2000 fails to resolve conflicting theoretical perspectives about the purpose and scope of public library services. While allowing for temporary unity of political action, ALA Goal 2000 may create contradictory service priorities that confuse both the public and librarians. Strengths and weaknesses of the social…

This is the fourth in a series of reports evaluating the Public Library Statistics (PLS) program, an annual census of public libraries in the United States. The census includes, in addition to a full count of public libraries and their outlets, a variety of statistics about the services provided by and, the financial condition and the staffing…

The manual is prepared for use in courses taught at the annual workshops sponsored by the Michigan Department of Education, Bureau of Library Services, for those public library personnel who need state certification. It includes the following sections: (1) The Public Library, (2) Selecting Materials for a Library, (3) Organization of Library…

This document provides guidelines on policymaking for public librarians and public library trustees in Vermont. Topics covered include: (1) the importance of policies in bringing order, logic, stability, and continuity to a library's operation; (2) the roles of trustees and librarians in adopting carrying out policies; (3) reasons why policies…