Reports on the 1987 Drexel University/Free Library of Philadelphia Conference on Children's Literature. The edited text of the keynote address by Alvin Schwartz, "Children, Humor and Folklore," and the acceptance speech by Deborah Kogan Ray, recipient of the 1987 Drexel Citation, are included. Observations on humor from workshop sessions are…

Discussion of how school and public librarians can make children's lives better focuses on a list of 40 developmental assets that children need to become responsible, successful, caring adults. Considers both internal and external assets, the importance of relationships with patrons, and the importance of involving youth. (LRW)

A survey and demonstration project was undertaken in 1977-78 to identify gaps in the professional preparation of library professionals who work with young children, and to develop and test short course offerings to improve the skills and competencies of school and public librarians. Questionnaires were sent to 400 school and public librarians in…