Since children develop the critical language and early reading skills necessary to enter kindergarten between birth and age five, reading aloud is one of the most influential steps librarians, teachers, parents, and caregivers can take to foster preschoolers' literacy skills. Early exposure to books heavily influences vocabulary knowledge, which…

Digital inclusion is the ability of individuals and groups to access and use information and communication technologies. Not all members of a community benefit equally, and some communities have been left out altogether. This paper is a guide for fostering digital inclusion throughout the United States so that everyone can take advantage of…

This guide is based on findings of a year-long study undertaken by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to evaluate Institute-sponsored programs for youth aged 9-19 between 1998 and 2003, and discussion with the IMLS Youth Action Committee and practitioners about the kind of information needed for planning and implementing effective…

This paper describes a project that underscores the critical role of this nation's museums and libraries in helping citizens build such 21st century skills as information, communications and technology literacy, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, civic literacy, and global awareness. Recognizing that every individual requires these…

The purpose of this long-range plan is to describe the status of library development in Wisconsin, the needs and problems of libraries, and the possible ways of meeting these needs over the next 5 years. The plan reflects reports submitted to the Division for Libraries and Community Learning staff, surveys, consultations with librarians and…

This annual report on the comprehensive 5-year program for the enhancement of library services in New York State (1) provides a benchmark for the continuing planning, development, and evaluation of state library services; (2) summarizes the objectives, policies, and programs undertaken for the improvement of those services; (3) serves as a guide…

Quantitative output measures for municipal and county public library services in Wisconsin provide points of reference for libraries to analyze their needs and establish primary service goals based on unique community-targeted services. Traditional input measures are also furnished, which produce various recommended targets, based on the size of…

This comprehensive plan for library development in Vermont over a five year period is the result of extensive consultation with professionals in the field, the State Advisory Council on Libraries, and the U.S. Department of Education. Focusing on the role of the Vermont Department of Libraries as the implementor of the long range program of…