The Public Library Start-Up Guide

An estimated thirteen million people in the U.S. are not served by a public library. This presents opportunities for creating new libraries. Involving complex, time-consuming, and expensive decisions, the prospect of starting a library without the right direction seems overwhelming. The Public Library Start-Up Guide provides a framework for success - from looking at the big strategic picture to picking the furniture. the practical issues for library professionals as well as nonlibrarians who need to know where to start. With savvy guidance on all aspects of providing public library service, this is the comprehensive one-stop resource for planning and starting a new library. Community leaders, Friends of Libraries, trustees, policymakers, and municipal officials as well as librarians will find a friendly, accessible, and concise guide to help them get the job done.

This guide to creating public library services pairs well with Libraries, Mission, & Marketing [RBB Mr 1 04]. Both written by library professionals experienced in library administration and public relations, these compact volumes work together to provide focus and options in planning, promoting, and developing or expanding a library. Although they can be used separately, their subjects are complementary and interrelated. Establishing a library with furnishings, staff, and services does little good if its mission and promotion of that mission are not carefully considered, just as a clear vision of service is useless if the institution cannot meet its goals. Take a two-fisted approach and study both guides, and you'll not only provide the best library service but be able to explain how and why you do so. RBB
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