This booklet was prepared in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the watershed Adult Education Act of 1966, and in acknowledgement of the key role that libraries have played in U.S. adult education throughout the century. Written by library educators, the two commissioned papers that make up the booklet describe the role of public libraries in…

In common with many other people, librarians have been too prompt to assume that availability of books and materials will necessarily lead to their utilization. What has happened in all too many American communities is that libraries are intensively used by only a small portion of the population, while the vast majority are untouched by the…

Contrasts the arguments of economists who measure the value of library services to society by business standards with the criteria of "the public good" which predominated during the development of public libraries and argues that libraries must continue to serve the whole community. Twenty references are cited. (RAA)

President Clinton discusses issues affecting libraries and explains his administration's plans regarding them. Addresses connecting educational environments to the Internet, the Communications Decency Act, the Federal Communications Commission, the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and rates for "universal service." Describes federal…

This article discusses the problem of adult illiteracy and offers guidelines to assist librarians in developing adult literacy programs based on results of the Los Angeles Public Library's Library Adult Reading Project. Federal and state funding, partnerships, plan of action, personnel, materials, operations, and equipment are covered. (EJS)

Libraries have played an important role in developing and operating programs which enhance English-language skills and ease assimilation into U.S. society. This report presents descriptions of the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) grants which funded library programs and projects benefitting individuals with limited English-speaking…

Because the vitality of libraries as educational agencies depends on wise actions by public decision makers and others who provide resources to educational institutions, the American Library Association has identified four realities for effective educational reform within a learning society: (1) learning begins before schooling, (2) good schools…

Discusses the findings of the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science hearing on the status and needs of native Americans' libraries, based on visits to four pueblo libraries. Library services are described, financial support and needs are discussed, and the role of the library in native American cultures is examined. (CLB)

The present public library financing system is described and assessed, and the key issues for consideration in either reaffirming its continued use or in the development of new approaches are delineated. Special emphasis is given to illuminating those issues and factors affecting metropolitan areas--both core city and suburban fringes. The…

A footnote to state legislation provided an opportunity to examine the extent to which joining Wyoming's libraries might better serve the needs of those who depend on library services. The footnote designated an appropriation of $20,000 to evaluate the feasibility of merging the state library and the university library by: (1) reviewing the space…

This study develops a chronological summary of the relationship between the development of library service in North Carolina--particularly public library service--and the State Library and the North Carolina Library Commission. The study was the first step in a long-range planning enterprise (to the year 2000) which encompasses not only…

Compares constant dollar spending on research with constant dollar spending on libraries 1960-1995. Evaluation of the indirect cost policy by which library costs are reimbursed as a function of science grant management suggests it has failed to promote cost-effective research. Evaluation of the impact of various information technologies finds…

The U.S. National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS) conducted an open forum May 4-5, 1993 on the changing role of the federal government in support of library and information services and literacy programs for children and youth. The following topics were addressed: current status of library and information services for…

This report, which considers the role of networking activities associated with the technical telecommunication links that bind libraries, services, and patrons together, begins with a historical review of libraries and automation-based systems over the last 19 years. The importance of the development and implementation of standards in interactive…

A summary of Kentucky's involvement in the second White House conference on Library and Information Service (WHCLIS), this report describes the activities surrounding this event and Kentucky's Governor's Conference on Library and Information Services. The recommendations that were adopted at the Governor's Conference in 1991 are listed, and the…