Public Library Policy Writer: A Guidebook with Model Policies on CD-ROM

Library policy experts Jeanette Larson and Herman Totten return with this new guide addressing today's hot-button issues - the PATRIOT Act, fair labor standards, disaster planning, CIPA, virtual reference services, wireless networks - and the timeless topics that require official responses. In addition to explaining the importance of policies and the fundamentals of their creation, Larson and Totten analyze and offer model policies for over 65 crucial areas, including:Personnel and employment practices; Staff and patron conduct; Access to library materials, services, and facilities; Collection development, and Reference and information services The companion CD-ROM reproduces all of the policies, for easy replication or adaptation to your library.

The guidebook is written mainly for small to medium-sized public library directors who need to analyze current policies, revise or update those still in use, and develop new ones. The book is organized by administrative and service areas such as employment practices, staff and patron conduct, use of materials, collection development, and access to facilities. A quick guide to model policies enables the reader to find examples that can be used or adapted. Also here are various documents, such as the ALA Code of Ethics and the Library Bill of Rights. The authors’ experience as consultants and teachers translates into philosophical and pragmatic explanations and examples. Because policy matters affect the daily operations of a library, this practical tool should be useful to administrators, staff, and library boards. --Patricia Hogan