This document provides the 5-year (1997-2001) library plan for public libraries in Louisiana. It seeks to identify specific inadequacies in public library services, resources, facilities, and personnel. It also identifies the people who are to be served, and reveals geographical, sociological, economic, and educational barriers to the expanded use of libraries. Finally, it presents plans of action to overcome both inadequacies and barriers, whether in the physical plant, in information provision, or in services to demographic groups. Topics include: (1) administration; (2) areas without services; (3) areas with inadequate services, such as staffing, collection, materials selection policy, audiovisual holdings, administrative certification, community information, and drug prevention information; (4) literacy programs; (5) access and services to the handicapped; (6) strengthening the State Library Administrative Agency; (7) urban resource libraries; (8) national/regional resources centers; (9) service to limited speakers of English and to senior citizens; (10) construction; (11) library networks; and (12) preservation. Appendices include the Louisiana State Library organization chart, maps depicting areas with inadequate service and urban vs. rural areas, a list of members in the Library Services and Construction Act (LCSA) State Advisory Council on Libraries, and LSCA criteria, priorities, procedures, and policies. (Author/AEF)