Describes the inequities and inefficiencies created by user fees in public libraries and publicly supported academic libraries and agencies. Alternatives to user fees are suggested. (KP)

The first librarian ever elected to US House of Representatives discusses personal impressions of Washington's war on libraries, federal Office of Management and Budget's Circular A-76, power for counterattack, modernizing the library mission, the primary censor, new terms of recognition needed for librarians, and eight elements in program for…

A report of trends, events and activities of libraries during 1973. (JB)

Explains scope of the Library Services and Construction Act, Title IV-B, and Higher Education Act, Title II, programs with emphasis on library funding. The future of library programs under these acts is also addressed. (SW)

Presents an interview with the head of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Diane Frankel. Discusses the IMLS vision; library funding under IMLS versus the Department of Education; criteria for grant awards; effects of the Gates Library Foundation on federal funding; library/museum collaboration; and funds allocation to libraries…

Describes how Nashville (Tennessee) mayor Phil Bredesen has enlisted sports fans to help champion a $100 million overhaul of the city's library system. Discusses Internet filtering and balancing printed materials and technology. Highlights politicians from Illinois, Washington, Georgia, Texas, Rhode Island, and California who have increased…

The United States is home to about 1.3 million organizations that fall under the IRS's 501(c)(3) classification of "[tax]-exempt organizations," known informally as nonprofits. A nonprofit is defined as a formally incorporated nongovernmental organization that operates in the public interest, rather than in order to make a profit. Its income, in…

Considers role of states as middlemen between federal government and local public libraries in administration of Library Services and Construction Act funds. An audit of Illinois state library agencies, 1970 federal mandates, state control of federal funds, and state library agencies' use of funds are discussed. Eight references are cited. (EJS)

Presents Library Journal's 1998 Budget Report, including the cost of linking to the Net; cost of Net maintenance; fund raising for fiscal years 1992, 1996, and 1997; projected budget changes from 1997 to 1998 and provides changes in budgets for 63 public libraries serving rural, suburban, and urban areas. (PEN)

Examination of corporate donations of cash, products, service, and expertise to libraries highlights industry contributions in 1980; why corporations give; examples of corporate donations to various libraries (Brooklyn Public, New York Public, Altoona Area Public, Boston Public); planning fund-raising compaigns; and seven strategic planning…

Examines the factors that indicate slowing economic growth in the United States and their possible impact on library funding and expenditures. Areas discussed include government funding of libraries, regional economic differences, the increasing prices of library materials, and the overall economic outlook for libraries. (CLB)

Reports that some local and regional censorship groups are backed financially by national religious groups. Examines their impact on public and school libraries, recounts their influences on federal legislation, and reviews the status of state legislation. A sidebar discusses the American Library Association's role in aiding librarians. (JMV)

The American Library Association's (ALA) Annual Conference, June 24?30, in steamy Orlando, drew 19,575 people, including 5,739 exhibitors, the lowest total since Miami in 1994, not counting the SARS-shadowed conference in Toronto last year (see statistics, p. 15). Although this years conference was filled with exciting events, this abstract is…

We need fewer public libraries with greater dependence. Here at the beginning of the 21st century, public libraries are still saddled with a 19th-century model of government. They are far too beholden to governing authorities, usually municipal or county governments, for their financial sustenance. This is a formula for mediocrity. "Local control"…

Reports results of public library survey conducted by a Public Library Association committee that was established to study library investment practices and assess the need for establishing an investment management service. Revenue sources, investment patterns, benefits of pooling, and a proposed management service are highlighted. Six sources are…