http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/1721607

A study of urban library needs

The concentration of disadvantaged people in the major cities of the United States requires new programs of the urban library. Libraries must actively intervene to provide information and referral services on the problems of daily living and should serve as cultural institutions, reflecting the various ethnic orientations to be found in the city. Important ingredients to a successful urban outreach program include a sympathetic staff and small, neighborhood library centers. The greatest difficulty in carrying out any specialized program for the disadvantaged is the matter of funding, for the very concentration of poverty and related problems reduces the city's fiscal and personal resources for meeting these needs. In addition, urban libraries, because of their large collections, are called on to serve as research libraries and area resource centers for the suburbs. Statistics show that library expenses are rising, but that urban libraries are receiving a decreasing share of the city budget. Additional funds are imperative for the development of library programs deemed necessary for urban living. (Author/SL).

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