Three articles address issues that relate to libraries and the environment. Highlights include recycling projects; buying recycled paper products and other ecology-minded purchasing ideas; energy-efficient libraries; indoor pollution problems; a list of environmental information sources; designing library buildings; and activities that libraries…

Describes standards for playing surfaces and characteristics of play surfaces made of organic loose material, inorganic loose material, and compact materials. Necessary site preparation is discussed. An extensive, annotated list of manufacturers of surfaces is included. (DR)

Examines the determinants of the consumption aspirations of adolescents, with a major emphasis on the influence of the family. Finds that the ability of adolescents to purchase substantial consumer durable goods with their own earnings while being supported in the parental household may lead to unrealistic future consumption goals. (FMW)

The Calgary Board of Education has successfully operated a self-pay purchase order system to reduce the handling costs for small dollar purchases. A self-pay purchase order is basically a purchase order with a limited-amount check attached. Four exhibits illustrate the system and summarize the procedures. (MLF)

This study compared the learning and retention of the "scarcity" and "opportunity cost" concepts by students in grades one, three, and six. Results suggest a need for empirical research on factors affecting the retention of economic concepts by students in the early primary grades. (JD)

A five-step plan to develop a school insurance request for proposal to negotiate the best deal available for a school district. (MLF)

Discusses study findings of the "Cost, Quality, and Child Outcomes in Child Care Centers" that support the position that efforts of center directors to provide quality childcare services are often undermined by purchasing practices of parents and public agencies. (DR)

School districts can stretch their budgets for printed materials further by the following: (1) phasing in new textbook series; (2) substituting teacher-made activities for workbooks; and (3) purchasing classroom sets rather than separate workbooks for each student. (MLF)

The purchasing professional's role involves the development of purchasing-program strategies that include the following: (1) product research and evaluation; (2) supplier sourcing; (3) procurement and pricing alternatives; (4) contract administration; (5) systems design and administration; and (6) strategic planning. (MLF)

The primary objective of the purchasing specification is to provide an accurate basis for obtaining a product or service that will satisfy a particular need at a reasonable cost. Describes material vs. performance specifications and brand-name or equal specifications. (MLF)

Informal interviews with several people working in different industries reveal that, without exception, the vendors say companies do not routinely offer school officials gifts and entertainment to sway purchasing decisions, but that it does happen. (MLF)

Calls for consumer initiated education concerning environmentally ethical buying decisions. Presents a historical depiction of American Consumerism associated with food consumption, marketing strategies, fads, the environmental movement, and American buying habits. Discusses government definitions and ensuing ambiguity of product terminology. (MCO)

Introduces the alarm system planning process and provides examples of approaches that have worked for school districts. Explains system elements, monitoring, the bidding process, and the importance of staff training. (MLF)

The Hellgate Elementary School District (Montana) installed a computer network that connects classrooms, three buildings, and the outside world. The computers are installed in each classroom. Students are achieving higher test scores, and working in pairs has enhanced cooperative learning. Offers advice to other elementary districts about…

Examines the factors for properly selecting the ideal roofing system for school buildings. Discusses considerations involving roof insulation and inspections, warranties, and vapor retarders. (GR)