This basic text provides a solid, broadly based view of library public service and its functions, marrying the importance of the help ethos with a plethora of technological tools and techniques.

A library's primary function is to provide access to information considered useful or valuable to the society in which they exist. True to their introduction, Evans and Carter provide a solid, broadly based view of library public service and its functions. As in the preceding edition, its authors marry the importance of the help ethos with a plethora of technological tools and techniques. Coverage of such essential topics as circulation, reference, interlibrary loan, literacy instruction, reserves, and security has been extended, updated, and predicated on the importance of keeping a watchful eye on ethical and legal implications. New to this edition are discussions of staffing and training, customer service, programming, and assessment. The result brings into focus the duties and responsibilities of both professional librarians and support staff, with particular emphasis on areas of common concern.

G. Edward Evans, renowned Fulbright scholar and sought-after international consultant, is retired University Librarian and Adjunct Professor at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California.

Thomas L. Carter is Dean for Academic Resources at St. Mary's College of California.

Preface to the Seventh Edition
1--Introduction
2--Staffing
3--Customer Service
4--Reference Services
5--Reference Sources
6--Information Literacy Instruction
7--Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery
8--Circulation Services
9--Reserve Services
10--Serial Services
11--Media Services
12--Government Information
13--Archives & Special Data Collections
14--Programming
15--Security Issues
16--Assessment
Index