Introduction to Public Librarianship » (1st Edition)

This text for students of library science presents an introduction to public librarianship. Early chapters review the social forces and political events that initiated the public library movement. Other topics include (for example) the development of standards for public library service, the changing role of the library board, and the design and symbolism of the public library building. The volume concludes with a discussion of trends likely to affect public library development in the first part of this century. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Library Journal

This gargantuan effort by one of this country's most insightful and productive library educators is the first comprehensive textbook that addresses the full dimensions of public librarianship in America, adding substantial information about administrative structures, legal bases, funding sources, programs, and services. McCook's viewpoint is academic and institutional, but despite her dependence on what may be the most extensive and intensive literature search, she corrects parts of the record. The role of women in public library history finally gets the in-depth attention it deserves as does the relationship of libraries with other institutions and with society at large. The part played by library associations, particularly by the American Library Association and its Public Library Association unit, is given more weight than necessary. McCook also overemphasizes the importance of the American Library Trustee Association, to which only a small percentage of U.S. library trustees belong. Also missing is coverage of the library press. While useful for students, the overabundance of graphs, charts, and appendixes will be obstacles to casual readers. But these are mere quibbles when the work as a whole is a treasure, an essential tool for the LIS teacher. The appendix of suggested readings alone is worth the price. Kudos to McCook for this massive reservoir of original research and thoughtful analysis that will serve as a corrective to its less-thorough predecessors.-John Berry, Library Journal Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.