Explains the purpose of audits for libraries and describes three types of auditors--internal, government, and external--and five types of audits--financial, compliance, operational, performance, and special review. Guidelines for preparing for an audit and dealing with a surprise audit are provided. (EM)

Discusses the importance of educating library patrons about the library's finances and the impact of budget constraints and the escalating cost of serials on materials acquisition. Steps that can be taken in educating patrons by interpreting and publicizing financial information are suggested. (MES)

Provides a detailed guide to preparing library budgets and describes several types of budgets. Steps to preparing a final document are outlined, including identifying objectives, assessing and prioritizing needs, data collection and analysis, presentation to the funding agency, and evaluation and monitoring of the final budget. (CLB)