Discussion of library users who seek information for others focuses on a study of public library adult reference desks that identifies the relationships between agents and imposers that motivate reference desk use and describes agent users in terms of their self-reported education levels and frequency of library and reference desk use. (Author/LRW)

Considers the challenges facing public libraries in meeting the current needs of its users while still delivering traditional information and recreational services. Topics include keeping up with technological trends; recruitment, staffing, and continuing education; the role as community center; and creating effective marketing strategies. (LRW)

Explains the importance of grants to libraries and describes the evolution of a grant in Washington State that was written to develop and fund early childhood programs. Discusses the role of public and tribal libraries; training for library staff; steering committee; statewide partnerships; community partnerships; and planning workshops. (LRW)

Discussion of the use of libraries and online library resources in college distance learning focuses on two methods for libraries to provide good service: Web portals, or gateways, that provide access to selected resources; and online courseware to provide distance library courses. (LRW)

Highlights some of the excuses library trustees give for not doing advocacy. Presents points to keep in mind when planning and conducting advocacy programs, including: long-term goals, short-term goals, and follow-up activities. Sidebars include a "Trustee Association Health Quiz" and quotes from the field about advocacy. (AEF)

With the current focus on writing across the curriculum and the emphasis on schoolwide writing programs, perhaps library media specialists should consider adding writing instruction to the learning that takes place in the library media center. The teaching of writing should be a natural extension of the teaching of information literacy. Both…

Providing time and guidance to students as they "sift and sort" background information on a potential inquiry topic is important at any level of investigation, from grade school to graduate school. As the inquiring student moves through new information, discusses ideas with teachers and peers and, most of all, has time to reflect on the initial…

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…

What does it mean to be literate in the 21st century? Fifty years ago a high school graduate with some basic reading and writing ability could get a well-paying blue-collar job. Today a person at the same level might have trouble finding good work and may be considered illiterate in some circles. The past half-century has brought us not only…

Many children today have never lived in a home without a computer. They are the "Net Generation," constantly "connected" by iPod, cell phone, keyboard, digital video camera, or game controller to various technologies. Recent studies have found that Net Genners see technology as "embedded in society," a primary means of connection with friends, and…

Like any well-run company deciding on what products and services to offer, a good library should pay attention to customer demand when it is building its business reference collection. What kind of information do business patrons want? Most are looking for company and industry details: a corporate address or name of an officer, financial data for…

One of the hardest administrative duties for teacher-librarians seems to be collection development. One would think that the selection of books would be effortless, especially with the number of online bookstores offering used book discounts or free shipping for large orders. Deepening budget cuts and limited or untrained staff means collection…

Kathy McLellan and Tricia Suellentrop share a love of reading and a deep empathy for troubled teens, but they bring different strengths to their partnership. Suellentrop, according to McLellan, is the risk taker, the one who's "always willing to try something new and doesn't hesitate to step out there on the precipice." McLellan is the designated…

This study examines the effects of block scheduling on secondary school library media centers across the state of Arkansas. Specifically, this study addresses the impact that block scheduling has on the school library media center in the areas of time, resources, and productivity for both students and library media staff. This study is needed…

On January 15, 2005, a standing-room-only crowd of librarians listened as a panel of experts, moderated by Columbia University's Jim Neal, voiced support for the National Institute of Health's (NIH) proposal to mandate free online access to the research it funds. This article briefly discusses some personal accounts where open access would have…