Over 2000 participants made the daylong programming at the "Library Journal"/"School Library Journal" Virtual Ebook Summit, September 29, a robust conversation and not just within the summit interface but also in tweets with the #ebooksummit hashtag (and beyond) and in libraries across the country where participants logged in to take part. The…

This article presents the results of the 2008 "Library Journal" Budget Survey. Libraries that responded to the annual "Library Journal" Budget Survey are doing reasonably well, continuing the modest growth reported last year. However, a closer look suggests that budget increases may not go far enough. While 81% of all respondents projected an…

Describes the new library at the University of Arizona that is part of the Integrated Learning Center, a comprehensive learning environment focusing on undergraduate students. Topics include access to computers; support staff; and a management model to meet the needs of a new library organizational structure that puts the user at the top. (LRW)

Considers the benefits of having teens train public library patrons in technology use. Discusses what teens want from libraries, including access to technology, technology training, and homework help; what teens need to learn, depending on the patrons they will be helping; and training methods, including role playing. (LRW)

Describes the Libraries Online program by Microsoft and the American Library Association that provides low-income communities with access to online information by wiring public libraries to the Internet. Highlights activities at the Brooklyn Public Library and discusses earlier pilot projects, including the Technology Resource Institute for Public…

Describes the mobile library service in Memphis/ Shelby County (Tennessee) that was designed to meet the needs of non-English speaking residents. Discusses identifying target populations; funding; technology to provide access to the Internet; English as Second Language and multicultural Web sites; and cellular digital packet data (CDPD) and…

Public access to the Internet and computers is transforming public libraries into de facto e-government access points, for such disparate services as disaster relief, Medicare drug plans, and even benefits for children and families. This new role for public libraries is not just user-initiated. Government agencies now refer people to public…