Discusses expectations of public library reference service and the reality of what librarians can provide amid declining resources. Suggests reference librarians should define the gap between potential and reality in reference service, and inform the customers about how little money it would take to provide better service. Argues that librarians…

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) is responsible for the annual development and adoption of specific policies and formulas for the equitable distribution of monies in the area of educational instruction and academic support, including libraries. Two formulas are applied to determine funding: Full-Time Equated (FTE) enrollment…

Describes the management, programs, and services at the Brown County Library (Wisconsin), winner of the Library of the Year award sponsored by Gale Research Inc, and "Library Journal." Highlights include involvement of library staff; financial support; total quality management; coalitions with local businesses, community agencies, and…

Discusses the impact of the lack of autonomous boards of trustees on Quebec's public libraries and the political factors that influence decision making about the libraries. Organizational structure, public support, and financial support are covered. The author concludes that municipal governments do not give public libraries enough status.…

Discusses pertinent issues with an urban public library director, including recent financial, demographic, and technological changes; developing partnerships within the community; service philosophy; communication with staff; and fundraising concerns, including management skills. (LRW)

This paper explores the challenges and opportunities facing libraries as they evolve into the electronic networked environment, and looks at options for libraries in the year 2000 and beyond. The internationally networked environment has fundamentally changed the way in which people acquire and use information resources and services. The paper…