One of the informal hallmarks of a true profession is the existence of a solid, well-organised handbook of professional knowledge and practice—the 'vade mecum',—meant to be carried 'in the hand' and referred to constantly. This fine production from the world's oldest professional body for librarians amply passes the test for a good handbook: it is up-to-date, comprehensive, portable and well-organised internally for the swift retrieval of information . . . the coverage is remarkable—it even manages to cover the effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita upon public libraries! In summation, a useful, well-produced handbook aimed squarely at the American LIS practitioner.

New Library World

This compact tome represents a distillation of where the American public library has been, the major issues it faces today, and the tenets of the profession that make clear why these institutions remain a vital presence in the communities they serve. This title is strongly recommended for purchase by all public libraries and academic libraries that support an LIS curriculum.

Catholic Library World

This reference work is intended as a précis of public libraries in America, and it largely succeeds. . . . Essays on evaluation and research, intellectual freedom, philosophy of public librarianship, readers' advisory—all with fulsome bibliographies—provide excellent introductions to their topics. . . . LIS students will find this volume—especially as an eBook—hugely helpful.

Library Journal

This handbook encompasses multiple facets of public libraries. Sixty-plus topical essays address history, philosophy, problems, and daily operations; biographical entries profile 75 individuals; and factual snapshots offer brief details on 1,200 libraries. Thorough bibliographical citations for each entry make this handbook, a bibliographic essay, or guide to public library literature.

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