Public Libraries and Their Communities offers a robust representation of the countless changing aspects of public libraries. Cassell provides a concise history of public libraries, the development of different services specific to the communities they serve, and the continued influence of public libraries in enhancing educational programs and life-long learning skills. It is a clearly written source that explores many of the components necessary for public libraries to operate efficiently. Areas examined include financial aspects and budgeting, staffing at all levels, services to designated age groups, collection development, and community involvement. A guide to understanding the meaning, organization, and resilience of public libraries, this book is for anyone interested in public librarianship, public librarians regardless of specialization (children, young adult, adult), clerical staff at branch libraries, and the services public libraries offer. Recommended. Graduate students, professionals, and general readers.
— Choice Reviews
Professional first-aid for new and experienced public librarians seeking to provide quality service in a sometimes splintered America. A most useful text for a course in public librarianship.
— Bill Crowley, Ph.D., professor, School of Information Studies, Dominican University
As advocacy and constituency engagement are now more essential than ever in securing the future of public libraries, Cassell has provided a valuable primer for anyone needing a broad and contextual understanding of public libraries and the communities they serve.
— Maurice Wheeler, associate professor, Department of Information Science, and director, Advanced Management Certificate Program, University of North Texas
Public Libraries and Their Communities: An Introduction, by Kay Ann Cassell, is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to understanding how libraries build the services they provided for public library communities. The book is a great resource not just for professional librarians, but for all who care and invest in public libraries and want to learn the myriad of activities that go into building today’s public library.
— Nick Buron, chief librarian, senior vice president, Queens Public Library
Public Libraries and Their Communities provides a comprehensive introduction to public libraries and how they have evolved over time. Kay Cassell writes clearly and knowledgably about the various aspects of public library work, from governance to programming to strategic planning. This book should be required reading not only for students, but administrators, board members, and all who wish to develop a deeper understanding of our uniquely American institution.
— Richard Reyes-Gavilan, executive director, District of Columbia Public Library