Recommendation 1
Keep Pace with Rapid Growth of Information
Number: ACC 1-1
Responsibility: Administration, Congress, the National Commission on Library and Information Science
Implementation Status: Progress
To implement the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal State Joint Board are conducting a proceeding on Universal Service, which, among other things, would enable libraries and schools to obtain discounted telecommunications rates. In November 1996, the Joint Board recommended discounted rates for libraries and that the FCC seek additional comment on principles of universal service, administration of universal service programs, the mechanism of support for low-income consumers, and implementation of the discounts for libraries and schools. FCC will issue its final order in May 1997. See also Recommendations #16 and #38
Recommendation 2
Increase Appropriations Under Existing Law
Number: ACC 1-2
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
Proposals to rescind FY 1995 funding of library programs were threatened but not enacted in the 104th Congress. During FY 1996, the shutdown of government had an impact on library programs. When the government reopened, several continuing resolutions kept library-funded programs operating at the FY 1995 level.
The Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act, (P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) includes the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) in the Museum and Library Services Act of 1996. LSTA replaces the Library Services and Construction Act. Administered by a new Institute of Museum and Library Services, LSTA will receive appropriations of $136.4 million in FY 1997. LSTA seeks to: (1) to consolidate federal library service programs; (2) stimulate excellence and promote access to learning and information in all types of libraries for all ages; (3) promote library services that provide all users access to information through State, regional, national, and international library networks; (4) provide linkages among and between libraries; and (5) promote targeted library services to people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to people with limited functional literacy or information skills. See slso Recommendations #22, #38, and #71.
An appropriations summary follows:
LSTA, FY 1997 - $136,400,000; LSCA Title I, FY 1995 - $83,227,000, FY 1996 - $92,636,000; LSCA Title II, FY 1995 - $17,792,000, FY 1996 - $16,369,000; LSCA Title III, FY 1995 -$23,700,000, FY 1996 - $18,000,000; LSCA Title IV, FY 1995 - $2,494,380, FY 1996 - $2,540,100 (2% of Titles I - III); LSCA Title V, FY 1995 - 0, FY 1996 - 0; LSCA Title VI, FY 1995 - $8,026,000, FY 1996 - 0; Note: Library literacy grants, previously funded under LSCA Title VI, were able to receive funds through Title I.
LSTA reserves 4% of the appropriation ($5.4 million in FY 1997) for National Leadership Grants or contracts which can be used for: (1) the education and training of persons in library and information sciences; (2) research and demonstration projects related to improving libraries, education in library and information science, and enhancement of library services; (3) preservation of digitization of library materials and resources; and (4) model programs demonstrating cooperation between libraries and museums.
Recommendation 3
Dedicate Funding to Strengthen School Library Centers
Number: ACC 1-3
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The FY 1997 appropriation for education technology (P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) was $305 million, an increase of $226.5 million over FY 1996. The increase will encourage state and local initiatives integrating technology in school curricula.
The Improving America's Schools Act reauthorized the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Section 3602 authorized the allocation of funds for the acquisition of school library media resources for use in elementary and secondary schools by students, library media specialists, and teachers. Two hundred (200) million was authorized for FY 1995, but no funds were appropriated in FY 1995 or FY 1996. See also Recommendation #70.
Recommendation 4
Provide Funds to Meet Increasing Needs of the Public
Number: ACC 1-4
Responsibility: Congress, Federal Government
Implementation Status: Progress
The Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) provides funds to meet the diverse information needs of the American public. The legislation supports such activities as establishing or enhancing electronic linkages between libraries; electronically linking libraries with educational, social, or information services; assisting libraries in accessing information through electronic libraries; encouraging libraries in different areas, and encouraging different types of libraries to establish consortia and share resources; and targeting library and information services to persons having difficulty using a library and to underserved urban and rural communities. See also Recommendations #2 and #38.
Recommendation 5
Ensure Access Policies to Accommodate Diverse User Needs
ACC 1-5
Library and Information Profession
Implementation Status: Progress
The Library and Information profession is committed to universal access and meeting the diverse needs of users. The American Association of School Libraries, the Library and Information Technology Association, Public Library Association, and Reference and User Services Association have committees which focus on access to information. See also Recommendation #7.
Recommendation 6
Establish National Library Service for Disabled Americans
Number: ACC 2-1
Responsibility: President, Congress
(includes Federal funds for ADA Compliance)
Implementation Status: No Progress
Through its Public Library and Library Administration and Management Associations, the American Library Association develops policies relating to library structures, including their design and construction. Organized in the Library of Congress, the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped distributes talking and braille books and magazines through a network of 146 regional and subregional libraries. See also Recommendation #20.
Recommendation 7
Encourage New Libraries and Abolition of Access Barriers
Number: ACC 2-3
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
New public libraries which abolish access barriers to information have been constructed in several cities. The Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) provides funds to target library services to individuals with disabilities. See also Recommendation #5.
Recommendation 8
Adopt Laws Guaranteeing User Privacy/Confidentiality
Number: ACC 3-1
Responsibility: Congress, States
Implementation Status: Progress
The Office of Management and Budget published "Principles for Providing and Using Personal Information" in the January 20, 1995 Federal Register. The document is a guide for participants in the NII.
Recommendation 9
Develop First Amendment Awareness Program
Number: ACC 03-3
Responsibility: National Commission on Library and Information Science
Implementation Status: Progress
During the conference in 1994 on H.R. 6, Improving America's Schools Act (reauthorization of Elementary and Secondary Education Act), Senator Kassebaum's language on school prayer was accepted. The amendment stated that violations of protected prayer should be decided by the courts, not the Department of Education.
The American Library Association was one of the lead organizations in a coalition that fought obscenity provisions in the Communications Decency Act of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. CDA was found to be unconstitutional in June 1996. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear the case, ACLU v. Reno, in Spring 1997. See also Recommendation #16.
Recommendation 10
Ensure Nonconditional Funds for Library Materials
Number: ACC 3-4
Responsibility: Congress
That Federal policies for library funding not be conditioned upon the content of material legally acquired with such funding.
Implementation Status: Progress
Section 263 of the Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) states that the selection of library books and materials are reserved for the States and their local subdivisions.
Recommendation 11
Mandate Open Access to Government Information
Number: ACC 3-5
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
Congress passed the Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 1996, P.L. 104-197. In addition, the American Library Association issued the chronology, Less Access to Less Information by and about the U.S. Government. See also Recommendation #33.
Recommendation 12
Ensure Access to Information Resources
Number: ACC 4-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
In January 1995, House Speaker Gingrich and the Library of Congress launched an online access system to congressional information, Thomas, and the National Commission on Library and Information Science adopted "Principles of Public Information," a basis for governmental decisions about public information.
Providing access to information throughout the federal government since 1994, the Government Information Locator Service (GILS) is available through FedWorld, GPO Access, and the World Wide Web. The Office of Management and Budget instructed agencies to provide free direct Internet access to GILS core library records. The Environmental Protection Agency, General Services Administration, National Archives and Records Service, and the Departments of Commerce and Defense hired two consultants to determine how well GILS is meeting user expectations and to recommend improvements. The report is due in Spring 1997. See also Recommendation #56, #92, and #93.
Recommendation 13
Improve Depository Library Access to Electronic Material and Indexing
Number: ACC 4-2
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Government Printing Office issued "The Electronic Federal Depository Library Program: Transition Plan, FY 1996 - 1998." The proposal would convert the Depository Library Program to a completely electronic program except 24 print publications.
In July 1995, the American Library Association convened a Forum on Government Information involving several library associations. Forum participants developed a "Model for 'New Universe' of Federal Information Access and Dissemination," to create a Chief Federal Information Dissemination Officer (evolved from the current Superintendent of Documents) and reinvent the Depository Library Program. See also Recommendation #35.
Recommendation 14
Create Scientific Research Information Clearinghouse
Number: ACC 4-3
Responsibility: Congress
This Recommendation supports National Education Goal #4.
Implementation Status: Progress
The Commerce Department's National Technical Information Service collects and disseminates scientific, technical, and business-related information generated by the U.S. government. In addition, the National Institute for Standards and Technology formed a new Information Technology Laboratory to focus on needs of the computer industry. The Laboratory will develop open, pre-competitive tests and test methods.
Recommendation 15
Define "National Security" More Clearly
Number: ACC 4-5
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
President Clinton issued two Executive Orders which will balance national security with democratic government and the public's need to know. E.O. 12958 will revise the system for Classified National Security Information, and E.O. 12937 will declassify 14% of the holdings of the National Archives and Records Administration.
NARA's facilities house more than 4 billion pieces of paper from the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the federal government, as well as extensive multimedia collections.
Recommendation 16
Legislate Preferential Library Telecommunications Rates
Number: ACC 4-6
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 deregulates communications companies and enables libraries and schools to be connected to the Information Superhighway. To implement the Act, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal State Joint Board are conducting a proceeding on Universal Service, which would enable libraries and schools to obtain discounted telecommunications rates. In response to a "Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Universal Service," the American Library Association submitted initial comments on April 10, 1996, and formal reply comments (Docket 96-45) on May 7. The Federal State Joint Board made final recommendations in November 1996 and extended the comment period; the FCC will issue its final order in May 1997. See also Recommendations #1, #34, and #38.
Recommendation 17
Direct Agencies to Use Library Network for Information Dissemination
Number: ACC 4-7
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Government Information Locator Service (GILS) offers free Internet access to federal agencies' core records. Many federal agencies have developed Websites that provide electronic access to their services and information resources. See also Recommendations #24, #26, and #56.
Recommendation 18
Provide No-Fee Public Access
Number: ACC 5-1
Responsibility: State/Local
Implementation Status: Progress
In addition to no-fee services, many public libraries offer enhanced services on a cost recovery basis.
Recommendation 19
Establish Study Group for Underserved Minority Groups
Number: ACC 5-3
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) provides funds to target library services to people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to people with limited functional literacy or information skills. See also Recommendations #2 and #38.
Recommendation 20
Improve Support for Blind and Physically Handicapped
Number: ACC 6-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Legislative Branch Appropriations Act of 1997 (P.L. 104-197, H.R. 3754) adds a section which permits reproduction of nondramatic literacy works for the exclusive use of the blind or other people with disabilities. This amendment to the Copyright Law adds section 121 to chapter 1 of Title 17. Appropriations for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped: FY 1995 - $44,951,00, FY 1996 - $44,951,000, and FY 1997 - $44,964,000. See also Recommendations #6 and #23.
Recommendation 21
Support Multicultural, Multilingual Populations
Number: ACC 7-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The American Library Association issued a letter for the hearing record on S. 356, the Language of Government Act of 1995. The letter states ALA's opposition to legislation about language which would restrict pluralism and diversity in library collections and services. One example of ALA's commitment to diversity is the minority fellow program which enables minority librarians to learn Association management.
The National Security Education Program supports foreign language studies by American graduate and undergraduate students. FY 1996 appropriations were limited to defense\intelligence agencies. See also Recommendations #40 and #86.
Recommendation 22
Native American Library and Information Services
Number: Petition 7
Responsibility: The President, The Congress, Federal Government, Library of Congress, State Governments and Archives, Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian Act, Tribal Governments, and National Congress of American Indians.
Implementation Status: Progress
Section 221(a)(1)(A) of the Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208) reserves 1.5% of the appropriation ($2 million in FY 1997) to fund services for Indian tribes. The funds can support such activities as establishing or enhancing electronic linkages between libraries; electronically linking libraries with educational, social, or information services; assisting libraries in accessing information through electronic libraries; encouraging libraries in different areas, and encouraging different types of libraries to establish consortia and share resources; and targeting library and information services to persons having difficulty using a library and to underserved urban and rural communities. See also Recommendation #36.
Recommendation 23
Encourage Innovative Approaches for the 1990s
Number: ACC 9-1
Responsibility: National Commission on Library and Information Science
Implementation Status: Progress
The Recording Industry Association of America, a private not-for-profit corporation, donated high-speed duplicating equipment worth more than $100,000 to the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped's regional libraries. RIAA obtained the equipment through its anti-piracy program. In accordance with federal and state laws, the equipment would have been auctioned off or destroyed to keep it from counterfeiters. Now the equipment will make copies of tapes that can be circulated to more than 776,000 eligible borrowers in a network of 143 regional and local libraries.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has teamed with the Library of Congress to improve access to the Global Legal Information Network, a cooperative database that provides access via the Internet to U.S. laws and those of 12 member nations. NASA is developing a satellite communications system that allows use of GLIN as a digital legal library from anywhere in the world. See also Recommendation #45.
19 Resolutions
1 Petition
20 Total
Implementation Status: Progress
Providing access to information throughout the federal government since 1994, the Government Information Locator Services (GILS) is available through FedWorld, GPO Access, and the World Wide Web. The Office of Management and Budget instructed agencies to provide free direct access to GILS core library records. Thomas, an online access system to congressional information, was launched by Speaker Newt Gingrich and the Library of Congress in 1995. See also Recommendation #17.
Recommendation 25
Amend Copyright Statutes for New Technologies
Number: NIP 2-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
Several bills related to this recommendation were introduced in the 104th Congress, but they were not enacted into law. Included among the bills were the Copyright Term Extension Act (S. 483/H.R. 989) to add 20 years to current protection; H.R. 1861 permitting the Copyright Office to increase fees; S. 1961 authorizing, among other things, to move the Copyright Office from the Library of Congress to a newly-created Intellectual Property Organization in the Department of Commerce; and H.R. 244/S. 1284 to implement "Intellectual Property Rights and the National Information Infrastructure: A Report of the Working Group on Intellectual Property Rights." Other bills dealt with the issue of liability of online service providers, establishment of a 25-year term sui generis intellectual property protection for databases, and a music licensing exemption for some small businesses and restaurants. These issues are likely to reappear in the 105th Congress.
Representatives of 160 nations, including the United States, attended the Diplomatic Conference of the World Intellectual Property Organization and adopted two treaties that supplement and update the the copyright protection under the Berne Convention, and provide a basic level of international protection to performers and producers of sound recordings. The legislatures of the nations will have to adopt the treaty language.
The Legislative Branch Appropriations Act of 1997 (P.L. 104-197, H.R. 3754) amended the Copyright Law by adding section 121. The new section permits reproduction of nondramatic literacy works for the exclusive use of the blind or other people with disabilities.
Several library associations approved the statement, "Fair Use in the Electronic Age: Serving the Public Interest." The American Library Association and other associations in the Digital Future Coalition contend that enhancements of copyright protection must preserve and enhance "Fair Use."
In 1995, the U.S. Copyright Office celebrated 125 years in the Library of Congress. Copyright Office circulars and other materials about the copyright law are available on the Internet: http://www.loc.gov . The Copyright Office is testing the registration of works via the Internet.
In October 1994, the U.S. Appeals Court for the Second Circuit decided that the copying at issue in American Geophysical Union v. Texaco, Inc. was not a fair use. See also Recommendation #92.
Recommendation 26
Guarantee Full, Timely Access to Public Information
Number: NIP 3-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
Providing access to information throughout the federal government since 1994, the Government Information Locator Service (GILS) is available through FedWorld, GPO Access, and the World Wide Web. The Office of Management and Budget instructed agencies to provide free direct Internet access to GILS core library records. The Environmental Protection Agency, General Services Administration, National Archives and Records Service, and the Departments of Commerce and Defense hired two consultants to determine how well GILS is meeting user expectations and to recommend improvements. The report is due in Spring 1997. See also Recommendation #57.
In January 1995, House Speaker Gingrich and the Library of Congress launched an online access system to congressional information, Thomas. The National Commission on Library and Information Science adopted "Principles of Public Information," a basis for governmental decisions about public information.
In the matter of Armstrong v. Executive Office of the President, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled in February 1995 that the National Security Council must preserve its electronic mail records under the Federal Records Act. See also Recommendation #11.
Recommendation 27
Eliminate Impediments to Accessing Information
Number: NIP 3-4
Responsibility: Congress, Executive Branch
Implementation Status: Progress
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (Commerce Department) issued in July 1995 a report, "Falling Through the Net: A Survey of the 'Have Nots in Rural and Urban America." The report expands the concept of universal service by including computer and modem ownership along with telephony, across income, race, age, educational attainment, and geographic region. Providing access to information throughout the federal government since 1994, the Government Information Locator Service (GILS) is available through FedWorld, GPO Access, and the World Wide Web. The Office of Management and Budget instructed agencies to provide free direct Internet access to GILS core library records. See also Recommendation # 26.
Recommendation 28
Provide Incentives for Literacy Program Development
Number: NIP 4-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The National Institute for Literacy, an independent federal organization created by the National Literacy Act of 1991, provides national leadership and assistance toward the goal of a fully literate America. NIFL is jointly administered by the Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and Labor and has a Presidentially-appointed advisory board. NIFL funded a National Adult Literacy and Learning Disabilities Center Intergenerational Learning and Libraries Program with HEADSTART and the Library of Congress' Center for the Book. See also Recommendations #62, #74 and #75.
A new study, Even Anchors Need Lifelines: Public Libraries in Adult Literacy, urges strengthening literacy programs in public libraries. The study was commissioned by the Library of Congress' Center for the Book and had additional support from McGraw-Hill Companies, the National Institute for Literacy, and the American Library Association.
Recommendation 29
Establish Presidential Advisor on Information Policy
Number: NIP 5-1
Responsibility: President
Implementation Status: Progress
The Office of Management and Budget has a chief of Information Policy and Technology Branch in its Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, and the Executive Office of the President has an Assistant to the President for Science and Technology policy. The Information Technology Management Reform Act of 1996 established new oversight responsibilities for the OMB, instructed agencies to name a chief information officers with responsibility for systems management, and established a federal chief information officer council.
The American Library Association convened a Forum on Government Information in July 1995 involving several library associations. Forum participants developed a "Model for 'New Universe' of Federal Information Access and Dissemination." The Model would create a Chief Federal Information Dissemination Officer (evolved from the current Superintendent of Documents) and reinvent the Depository Library Program as a federal/state/local partnership. See also Recommendation #35.
Recommendation 30
Re-title and Restructure the Department of Education
Number: NIP 5-2
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Library Services and Technology Act (in PL. 104-208, H.R. 3610) moves library programs from the Department of Education to the Institute for Museum and Library Services. During the 104th Congress, bills were introduced to strengthen state and local control of U.S. education, redefine the federal role in education, and eliminate the Department of Education. These bills were not enacted into law. See also Recommendations #2 and #38.
Recommendation 31
Require Library Participation in Government Actions
Number NIP 5-3
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
LSTA funds statewide services through state library agencies, and provides grants for technological innovation and outreach. State-based activities can involve public, school, academic, and research libraries. See Recommendations #2 and #38.
Recommendation 32
Enact National Information Policies for Democracy
Number: NIP 7-1
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Electronic Freedom of Information Amendments of 1996 (P.L. 104-231): clarifies that federal government electronic records are subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, requires agencies to provide records in the requested format where possible, and encourages agencies to increase on-line access to government records.
The American Library Association was one of the lead organizations in a coalition that fought obscenity provisions of the Communications Decency Act of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The Act was found to be unconstitutional in June 1996, but the Supreme Court has agreed to hear the appeal in Spring 1997.
In September 1995, the Department of Commerce issued the final report, "Intellectual Property Rights and the National Information Infrastructure, A Report of the Working Group on Intellectual Property Rights." The Digital Future Coalition contended that legislation to implement the White Paper (H.R. 2441/S 1284) would have threatened fair use in the digital environment. The Office of Management and Budget published draft "Principles for Providing and Using Personal Information" in the January 20, 1995 Federal Register. The document is for participants in the National Information Infrastructure.
Recommendation 33
Create Nationwide Information Infrastructure
Number: NIP 8-1
Responsibility: Federal Government, Private Industry, and the Library Profession
Implementation Status: Progress
The U.S. Advisory Council on the National Information Infrastructure was appointed early in 1994 to advise the Secretary of Commerce and the Administration on a national strategy for promoting the development of the National Information Infrastructure and the Global Information Infrastructure. The Advisory Council issued two reports in the Spring of 1996: "A Nation of Opportunity: Realizing the Promise of the Information Superhighway" and "Kickstart Initiative: Connecting America's Communities to the Information Superhighway." The NII Advisory Council received the Coalition on Government Information's 1996 James Madison Award on Freedom on Information Day, March 15, 1996. The Office of Management and Budget published draft "Principles for Providing and Using Personal Information" in the January 20, 1995 Federal Register. The document is for participants in the NII. A nonprofit corporation, the National Educational Technology Funding Corporation, was formed in 1995 to receive and distribute funds for libraries and schools to connect to the NII. The Federal Networking Council is an interagency body established to provide coordination among agencies on high performance computing and networking. The FCN Advisory Committee was chaired in 1996 by Carol Henderson, the ALA Washington Office Executive Director. See also Recommendation #59.
Recommendation 34
Implement and Extend Transmission Network
Number: NIP 8-2
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
In October 1996, NetDay96 coordinated efforts to wire all K-12 schools to the Internet. Cable, telephone, and other companies provided materials, and volunteer engineers and other technical people provided the labor.
Vice president Al Gore, Secretary of Education Richard Riley, and FCC chairman Reed Hundt endorsed a new E-rate for schools and libraries. The address for NetDay 1996 was http://www.netday96.com. See also Recommendations #16 and #48.
Recommendation 35
Increase Funding of Depository Programs
Number: NIP 8-3
Responsibility: Congress
Implementation Status: No Progress
The appropriations summary for the Government Printing Office's Superintendent of Documents is: FY 1995 - $32,207,000, FY 1996 - $30,307,000, and FY 1997 - $29,077,000. During FY 1996, conferees rejected the 50% cut recommended by the House. GPO issued "The Electronic Federal Depository Library Program: Transition Plan, FY 1996 - 1998," a proposal to convert the Depository Library Program to a completely electronic program. By October 1998, everything distributed to depository libraries would be in electronic format except 24 publications. The Department of Justice's Office of Legal Council issued on May 31, 1996 a memorandum which says that Executive branch departments are not obligated to procure printing by or through GPO because federal printing laws are unconstitutional, but in the Fall, the acting director of the Office of Management and Budget instructed agencies to continue using the capabilities and expertise of GPO. See also Recommendation #68.
The Government Printing Reform Act of 1996 (H.R. 4280) would have allowed private vendors to bid for contracts to print government documents. Opponents of the bill argued that decentralization could undermine Congress' efforts to make legislative information easily accessible to the public and could cost more to the taxpayers. The bill died in the 104th Congress, but similar legislation may be introduced in the 105th Congress, and the debate on Government Printing reform will continue.
Recommendation 36
Focus on Native American History Information
Number: NIP 08-4
Responsibility: Federal Government, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI), currently with offices in Washington, DC and New York City, will be built on the mall in Washington. NMAI's Cultural Resources Center is scheduled to open in 1998 in a suburb of Washington (Suitland, MD).
Included among the many print sources of information on Native American history are the Guide to the National Anthropological Archives and the Guide to Collections at the National Archives. In addition, the Library of Congress published Many Nations: A Guide to American Indian Resources in the Library of Congress. See also Recommendation 22.
Recommendation 37
Plan Decennial White House Conference on Library and Information Services
Number: NIP 10-1
Responsibility: President, Congress, National Commission on Library and Information Science, Library and Information Profession, White House Conference on Libraries and Information Services Taskforce.
Implementation Status: No Progress
WHCLIST has annual conferences to discuss recommendations of WHC II, pressing legislation, and other issues relating to libraries. Annual conferences since WHC II in 1991 have been in the following cities: Arlington, VA - 1992, Indianapolis, IN - 1993, Santa Clara, CA - 1994, Washington, DC - 1995, Greenville, SC - 1996, Little Rock, AR - 1997 (scheduled), Phoenix, AZ - 1998 (scheduled). In 1996, WHCLIST formed a planning group to seek input from all interested groups/individuals about whether, when, and how to organize a WHC III. The American Library Association created a WHC Subcommittee of the Legislation Committee.
Recommendation 38
Enact Library and Information Services Act Legislation
Number: NIP 10-2
Responsibility: President, Congress, NCLIS, Library and Information Profession, WHCLIST
Implementation Status: Implemented
The Library Services and Construction Act, the largest federal assistance program for libraries, was replaced by the Library Services and Technology Act, which is included in the Museum and Library Services Act of 1996 (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610). LSTA has appropriations of $136.4 million in FY 1997 to: (1) consolidate federal library service programs; (2) stimulate excellence and promote access to learning and information in all types of libraries for all ages; (3) promote library services that provide all users access to information through State, regional, national, and international library networks; (4) provide linkages among and between libraries; and (5) promote targeted library services to people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to people with limited functional literacy or information skills. See also Recommendations #2, #16, #22, and #71.
Recommendation 39
Creating a New Generation of Libraries
Number: PET 8
Responsibility: Congress, Department of Education
Implementation Status: Progress
LSTA replaced the Library Services and Construction Act. See Recommendation #38.
Recommendation 40
Encourage Multicultural/Lingual and Staffs
Number: NIP 11-1
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Implemented
The American Library Association issued a letter for the hearing record on S. 356, the Language of Government Act of 1995. The letter states ALA's opposition to legislation about language which would restrict pluralism and diversity in library collections and services. An example of ALA's commitment to diversity is the minority fellow program which enables minority librarians to learn Association management.
The National Security Education Program supports foreign language studies by American graduate and undergraduate students. FY 1996 appropriations were limited to defense\intelligence agencies. The Library Services and Technology Act funds library services for people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds... See also Recommendation #86.
Recommendation 41
Designate Libraries as Educational Agencies
Number: NIP 12-1
Responsibility: President, Department of Education
Implementation Status: No Progress
There has been no progress in implementing this Recommendation.
Recommendation 42
Establish Special Business-Focused Information Centers (in non-profit institutions & public libraries)
Number: NIP 14-1
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
Several academic and public libraries have business-focused information center. The Boston Public Library has a business center, and the New York Public Library opened its Business Technology Library in 1996.
Recommendation 43
Designate Information Centers As Governmental Function
Number: NIP 15-1
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: No Progress
The Office of Management and Budget issued a revised transmittal memorandum to OMB Circular No. A-76, "Performance of Commercial Activities."
16 Resolutions
1 Petition
17 Total
Recommendation 44
Provide Leadership for Information-Sharing Networks
Number: NET 1-1
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The U.S. Advisory Council on the National Information Infrastructure was appointed early in 1994 to advise the Secretary of Commerce and the Administration on a national strategy for promoting the development of the NII and the Global Information Infrastructure. The Advisory Council issued two reports in the Spring of 1996, "A Nation of Opportunity: Realizing the Promise of the Information Superhighway" and "Kickstart Initiative: Connecting America's Communities to the Information Superhighway." The NII Advisory Council received the Coalition on Government Information's 1996 James Madison Award on Freedom on Information Day, March 15, 1996.
Recommendation 45
Support Collaboration at All Levels in the Community
Number: NET 2-1
Responsibility: Federal Government, All Types of Libraries, All Community Service Providers and Agencies, WHCLIST, FOLUSA
Implementation Status: Progress
Friends of Libraries USA has a Website offering research on fundraising, membership drives, and library community outreach programs. The address is http://www.folusa.com. In October 1996, NetDay coordinated efforts to wire all K-12 schools to the Internet. Cable, telephone, and other companies provided materials, and volunteer engineers and other technical people provided the labor. The address for NetDay 1996 was http://www.netday96.com.
Vice president Al Gore, Secretary of Education Richard Riley, and FCC chairman Reed Hundt endorsed a new E-rate for schools and libraries. See also Recommendations #16, #23, and #48.
Recommendation 46
Encourage Cooperative Library Volunteer Groups
Number: NET 4-1
Responsibility: FOLUSA, WHCLIST, ALA Chapters
Implementation Status: Progress
WHCLIST, an organization of advocates and library supporters, seeks to improve the nation's library and information services. The WHCLIST Hotline is a national volunteer network which disseminates information about pending library legislation. The WHCLIST Website is www.erols.com/dmccarn/whclist.html. See also Recommendation #45.
Recommendation 47
Fund Libraries Sufficiently to Aid U.S. Productivity
Number: NET 5-1
Responsibility: President, Congress, Federal, State, Regional Tribal, Local, public/private partnerships
Implementation Status: Progress
The Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610) includes provisions that have the potential to aid U.S. productivity. See Recommendations #2 and #38.
Recommendation 48
Support End User Access Through Networks
Number: NET 8-1
Responsibility: President, Congress
Implementation Status: Progress
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (Commerce Department) issued in July 1995 a report, "Falling Through the Net: A Survey of the 'Have Nots in Rural and Urban America." The report expands the concept of universal service by including computer and modem ownership along with telephony, across income, race, age, educational attainment, and geographic region.
NTIA's Telecommunications Information Infrastructure Assistance Program (TIIAP) awards competitive grants to nonprofit and government groups, including schools and libraries to develop the NII. Appropriations were: FY 1994 - $24.4 million, FY 1995 - $63 million ($4 million rescinded), FY 1996 - $21 million, and FY 1997 - $21.4 million.
In addition, $15.25 million is available in FY 1997 for the Public Telecommunications Facilities Program. The grants are for planning and constructing public telecommunications facilities. See also Recommendations #16, #45, and #54.
Implementation Status: Progress
In October 1996, NetDay 1996 coordinated efforts to wire all K-12 schools to the Internet. Cable, telephone, and other companies provided materials, and volunteer engineers and other technical people provided the labor. The address for NetDay 1996 is http://www.netday96.com. Vice president Al Gore, Secretary of Education Richard Riley, and FCC chairman Reed Hundt endorsed a new E-rate for schools and libraries. See also Recommendation #23.
Recommendation 50
Recognize Network Value and Assure Involvement
Number: NET 11-1
Responsibility: Librarians, Information Specialists and their Professional Organizations
Implementation Status: Progress
See Recommendations #16 and #48.
Recommendation 51
Share Resources and Overcome Existing Barriers
Number: NET 11-2
Responsibility: Federal, State governments
To recognize multi-type libraries as one acceptable model
Implementation Status: Progress
See Recommendation #7.
Recommendation 52
Develop Networking Equity for Low-Density Areas
Number: NET 12-1
Responsibility: Federal, State & Local Governments
Implementation Status: Progress
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration issued "Survey of Rural Information Infrastructure Technologies," which supports the objectives of the Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistance Program, and "Falling Through the Net: A Survey of the 'Have Nots in Rural and Urban America." See also Recommendation #48.
Recommendation 53
Automating, Networking & Training to Link Territorial Libraries, Clearinghouses and Information Centers
Number: PET 9
Responsibility: Congress, Territorial Governments
Implementation Status: Progress
Territorial libraries are eligible for LSTA funds. See Recommendations #2 and #38.
Recommendation 54
Ensure Statutory Support for Library Role in America 2000
Number: NET 13-1
Responsibility: Department of Education, Federal Government
Implementation Status: Progress
The FY 1997 appropriation to carry out Titles III and IV of the Goals 2000: Educate America Act is $476 million. School libraries are included in the Library Services and Technology Act (in P.L. 104-208, H.R. 3610). The Elementary and Secondary Education Act reauthorization Title III-F created grants for the acquisition of school library resources in all formats. No funds were appropriated in FY 1995 and FY 1996.
Recommendation 55
Ensure Networking System Compatibility
Number: NET 15-1
Responsibility: President, Congress, State & Local Governments
Implementation Status: Progress
See Recommendations #16, #48, and #52.
Recommendation 56
Libraries Serve As Active Communications Ports for Legal and Government Information
Number: NET 16-1
Responsibility: Library and Information Profession
Implementation Status: Progress
The Global Legal Information Network (GLIN), of the Library of Congress Law Library provides access to an online database with information on the national laws of 35 countries. See also Recommendation #26.
Recommendation 57
Designate National Law Library
Number: NET 16-2
Responsibility: President, Congress, LC, AALL
Implementation Status: No Progress
Note: The Law Library of Congress was established in 1862 to provide research and legal information to the U.S. Congress as well as to U.S. Federal Courts and Executive Agencies, and to offer reference services to the public. The Law Library has the world's largest collection of law books and other legal collections from all countries. See also Recommendations #26 and #56.
Recommendation 58
Develop Policies, Procedures for Information in All Formats
Number: TEC 2-1
Responsibility: Partnership of Federal Agencies, Public and Private Organizations
Implementation Status: Progress
The Office of Management and Budget published draft "Principles for Providing and Using Personal Information" in the January 20, 1995 Federal Register. The document is intended as a guide for participants in the NII.
Providing access to information throughout the federal government since 1994, the Government Information Locator Service (GILS) is available through FedWorld, GPO Access, and the World Wide Web. OMB instructed agencies to provide free direct Internet access to GILS core library records.
In September 1995, the Department of Commerce issued the final report, "Intellectual Property and the National Information Infrastructure: The Report of the Working Group on Intellectual Property Rights." H.R. 244/S. 1284, introduced in the 104th Congress, would have implemented the report's recommendations. Hearings were held, but neither bill was enacted. The legislation was opposed by the Digital Future Coalition. This issue is likely to reappear in the 105th Congress.
The National Commission on Library and Information Science adopted "Principles of Public Information," a basis for governmental decisions about public information. See also Recommendations #11, #26, and #35.
Recommendation 59
Share Via a National 'Superhighway'
Number: TEC 6-1
Responsibility: President, Congress, Federal Government, Private Sector, NCLIS
Implementation Status: Implemented
In May 1994, the Department of Commerce issued for public comment, "Putting the Information Infrastructure to Work: A Report of the Information Infrastructure Task Force Committee on Applications and Technology." There was a chapter on libraries and the NII. The final report, "Intellectual Property and the National Information Infrastructure: The Report of the Working Group on Intellectual Property Rights," was issued in September 1995.
Recommendation 60
Convene Forum for National Research and Development Agenda
Number: TEC 7-1
Responsibility: NCLIS
Implementation Status: Progress
The National Commission on Library and Information Science and the National Center for Education Statistics organize annual Library and Information Services Policy Forums.