Presents results of a study on user needs, sources used, and search successes. Illustrates that despite increasing competition from other information sources available to the public--such as consumer media and the Internet--libraries are still a primary source of information and education for the American public. (AEF)

Explains education portals as Web sites that help teachers, students, parents, and librarians work together to learn and to share information. Compares full-service portals and niche portals regarding audience, search engine, grade levels, community tools including email and lesson plans, content, cost, and best features. (LRW)