A comprehensive look at contemporary trends and practices in public libraries
Current Practices in Public Libraries combines research, surveys, and practical experience to examine a variety of trends, issues, and practices in public library administration. The leading researchers in the field explore vital contemporary topics ranging from literacy instruction and advocacy to ethical concerns in the acquisition of foreign language materials. This practical professional guide presents examples of successful programs at individual libraries as well as results of comprehensive national surveys about funding, computers and Internet access, and branch closures.
Current Practices in Public Libraries presents an extensive look at advocacy, ethics, multicultural outreach, literacy training, marketing, and mentoring in today’s public libraries. This comprehensive resource examines a wide range of issues, including public library funding; contributing factors to the quality of public access computing and Internet services; the impact of public library closures; recent human rights violations in U.S. public libraries; supporting local small business development; how multiculturalism and automation can affect collection development and technical services; new leadership models; the use of marketing and advocacy to build and sustain support for public libraries; promoting family learning activities; and the case for small, independent libraries.
Current Practices in Public Libraries explores:
library funding
library expenditures
budget shortfalls
fiscal planning
Internet access and connectivity
library siting
library Bill of Rights
entrepreneurs
customization of library services
targeted services
acquisitions
collection development and management
outsourcing
state library agencies and associations
federal library programs and legislation
government relations
information literacy
tutoring
and much more
Current Practices in Public Libraries is an essential resource for librarians and library administrators working in public and academic settings, and for library sciences faculty and students.