Number
I. Availability and Access to Information
A. STRENGTHENING COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT Keep Pace with Rapid Growth of Information (ACC01-1) Increase Appropriations Under Existing Law (ACC01-2) Dedicate Funding to Strengthen School Library Centers (ACC01-3) Provide Funds to Meet Increasing Needs of the Public (ACC01-4) Ensure Access Policies to Accommodate Diverse User Needs (ACC01-5) B. ELIMINATING PHYSICAL BARRIERS Establish National Library Service for Disabled Americans (ACC02-1) Encourage New Libraries and Abolition of Access Barriers (ACC02-3) C. ASSURING PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY Adopt Laws Guaranteeing User Privacy/Confidentiality (ACC03-1) Develop First Amendment Awareness Program (ACC03-3) Ensure Nonconditional Funds for Legal Material (ACC03-4) Mandate Open Access to Information (ACC03-5) D. EXPANDING INFORMATION RESOURCES Ensure Access to Information Resources * (ACC04-1) Improve Depository Library Access to Electronic Material and (ACC04-2) Indexing (ACC04-3) Create Scientific Research Information Clearinghouse (ACC04-5) Define 'National Security' More Clearly (ACC04-6) Legislate Preferential Library Telecommunications Rates Direct (ACC04-7) Agencies to Use Library Network for Information Dissemination E. ENSURING NO-FEE AND IMPROVED ACCESS Provide No-Fee Public Access (ACC05-1) Establish Study Group for Underserved Minority Groups (ACC05-3) F. REDUCING BARRIERS FOR SPECIAL GROUPS Improve Support for Blind and Physically Handicapped (ACC06-1) Support Multicultural, Multilingual Populations (ACC07-1) G. PROJECTING FUTURE GOALS Encourage Innovative Approaches for the 1990s (ACC09-1)
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II. National Information Policies
A. ENHANCING INFORMATION DELIVERY Ensure Equal and Timely Access and Delivery (NIP01-1) B. UPDATING COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS Amend Copyright Statutes for New Technologies (NIP02-1) C. ASSURING ACCESS TO INFORMATION Guarantee Full, Timely Access to Public Information (NIP03-1) Eliminate Impediments (NIP03-4) D. DEVELOPING GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES Provide Incentives for Literacy Program (NIP04-1) Development Establish Presidential Advisor (NIP05-1) Retitle and Restructure the Department of Education (NIP05-2) Require Library Participation in Government Actions (NIP05-3) E. ASSURING INTELLECTUAL FREEDOM Enact National Information Policies for Democracy (NIP07-1) F. EXPANDING NETWORKS AND ACCESS Create Nationwide Information Infrastructure (NIP08-1) Implement and Extend Transmission Network (NIP08-2) Increase Funding of Depository Programs (NIP08-3) Focus on Native American History Information (NIP08-4) G. ASSURING CONFERENCE FOLLOW-UP Plan Decennial Library Conference (NIP10-1) Enact Library and Information Services Legislation (NIP10-2) H. BRIDGING POPULATION DIVERSITY Encourage Multicultural/Lingual and Staffs * (NIP11-1) I. INCORPORATING LIBRARIES IN EDUCATION Designate Libraries As Educational Agencies * (NIP12-1) J. SUPPORTING THE BUSINESS SECTOR Establish Special Business-Focused Information Centers (NIP14-1) K. CODIFYING FEDERAL LIBRARY SERVICES Designate Information Centers As Governmental Function (NIP15-1)
Number
III. Information Networks Through Technology
A. PLANNING AND COORDINATING ACTION Provide Leadership for Information-Sharing Networks (NET01-1) Support Collaboration at All Levels in the Community (NET02-1) Encourage Cooperative Library Volunteer Groups (NET04-1) B. SUPPORTING INFORMATION RESOURCES Fund Libraries Sufficiently to Aid U.S. Productivity (NET05-1) C. ENHANCING DATABASE ACCESS Support End User Access Through Networks (NET08-1) D. PURSUING PUBLIC/PRIVATE COOPERATION Encourage Partnerships at All Levels (NET10-1) E. COMBINING AND SHARING RESOURCES Recognize Network Value and Assure Involvement (NET11-1) Share Resources and Overcome Existing Barriers (NET11-2) F. UPGRADING RURAL SERVICES Develop Networking Equity for Low-Density Areas (NET12-1) G. NETWORKING SCHOOL LIBRARIES Ensure Statutory Support for Role in America 2000 (NET13-1) H. ESTABLISHING STANDARDS Ensure Networking System Compatibility (NET15-1) I. SHARING LEGAL PROFESSION INFORMATION Serve As Active Communications Ports (NET16-1) Designate National Law Library (NET16-2) J. ACCESSING THE SPECTRUM OF INFORMATION Develop Policies, Procedures for Information in All Formats (TEC02-1) K. BUILDING EDUCATION INFORMATION NETWORK Share Via a National 'Superhighway' * (TEC06-1) Convene Forum for Research and Development Agenda (TEC07-1)
Number
IV. Structure and Governance
A. FORMING NATIONAL-LEVEL OVERSIGHT Establish Congressional Committees (GOV01-2) Establish National Institute (GOV01-3) B. REVISING FISCAL POLICY Repeal Book Inventory Tax (GOV02-1) Continue Special Postal Rates (GOV02-2) Increase Library Allocation As Centerpiece in Education (GOV02-3) Initiative (GOV02-4) Extend Defense Impact Funds Formula to Libraries C. IMPLEMENTING EXISTING FEDERAL FUNDING Support Funding for Agencies in Information Dissemination (GOV05-2) Recognize Libraries As Partners in Lifelong Education (GOV05-3) Reestablish Categorical Funding for School Libraries (GOV05-5) Forward Fund LSCA Authorization (GOV05-6) Redirect LSCA Titles to State Library Agencies (GOV05-7)
Number
V. Services for Diverse Needs
A. EVALUATING PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS Establish Statistical Model for Determining Impact/Needs (SER01-1) B. ENHANCING LEARNING AND LITERACY (SER02-1) Adopt Omnibus Children and Youth Literacy Initiative School Library Services Title Public Library Children's Services Title Public Library Young Adult Services Title Partnership with Libraries for Youth Title C. ENABLING FULL PARTICIPATION IN SOCIETY (SER03-1) Emphasize Literacy Initiatives to Aid the Disadvantaged Establish National Coalition for Information Literacy D. EXPANDING HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SER06-1) Build on the Present with People-Oriented Services E. MEETING NEEDS OF DIVERSE SOCIETY (SER07-1) Target Special-Need Populations (SER07-2) Expand Service for Equitable Access by Print Handicapped F. EXTENDING SERVICE THROUGH OUTREACH (SER08-1) Adopt Proactive Policy for the Underaware, Underserved
Number
VI. Training to Reach End Users
A. TRAINING IN USE OF TECHNOLOGY Expand Support for Leadership in Lifelong Education (TRA01-1) B. BUILDING INFORMATION PROCESSING SKILLS (TRA02-1) Establish Presidential Total Quality Management Award C. ENCOURAGING LIFELONG LEARNING HABIT (TRA03-2) Extend User-Friendly Technology to All Citizens D. ENHANCING HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTIONS (TRA04-1) Train Students in Library and Information Services E. IMPROVING END-USER TRAINING (TRA06-1) Provide Grants for Innovative Model Training Projects
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VII. Personnel and Staff Development
A. EXPANDING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION Study Alternative Approaches with Accredited Schools (PER01-1) Target Graduate Education Funding to Aid Shortage Areas (PER01-2) B. SUPPORTING CONTINUING EDUCATION Provide Scholarships, Grants, and Loans at All Levels (PER02-1) C. BUILDING RECRUITMENT Increase Support to Attract Multicultural Professionals (PER04-1)
Number
VIII. Preservation of Information
A. DEVELOPING NATIONAL PRESERVATION POLICY Adopt National Program for Information Preservation * (PRE01-1) Provide Necessary Resources for Preservation (PRE02-1) B. PRESERVING CONFERENCE FINDINGS Publish Summary Report in Durable Form (PRE03-1)
Number
IX. Marketing to Communities
A. EVALUATING AND MARKETING LIBRARY SERVICES Create Model Library Marketing Programs * (MAR01-1) Evaluate and Develop Model Assessment (MAR01-3)
Delegates voted and accepted 95 recommendations and petitions, which are arranged for ease of reference in numerical order by general topic area and Committee group. Priority Recommendations, as determined by Conference vote before the final session, are noted.
That a major national program with significant federal funding is needed to strengthen library collection capabilities so essential to all aspects of library services. The collections of our Nation's libraries are unable to keep pace with the rapid growth of knowledge and information. (ACC01-1)
Increase Appropriations Under Existing Law
That the President and Congress support increased appropriations for all types of library and information services under existing federal law. (ACC01-2)
Dedicate Funding to Strengthen School Library Centers
That the Congress provide dedicated collection development funds to school library media centers in order to strengthen out-dated, deteriorating, and inadequate collections, encouraging those media centers to share resources and coordinate with other libraries to purchase needed materials. (ACC01-3)
Provide Funds to Meet Increasing Needs of the Public
That the federal government provide funds to encourage development for the increasingly complex and diverse information needs of the American public. (ACC01-4)
Ensure Access Policies to Accommodate Diverse User Needs
That libraries must have collections development policies which provide universal access to all forms of information and materials by meeting the diverse needs of users, including, but not limited to, language and cultural background differences. (ACC01-5)
That the President and the Congress establish a National Library Service for Persons with Disabilities to emphasize the use of alternative media and the elimination of barriers to serve a significant portion of the U.S. population. All barriers to library and information services should be eliminated to achieve full and complete access, as set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Federal funds should be made available to assure compliance and to provide incentives for making existing library facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. (ACC02-1)
Encourage New Libraries and Abolition of Access Barriers
That establishing new libraries be encouraged, where needed, and support provided for the abolition of barriers to library and information services whether educational, cultural, attitudinal, physical, architectural, legal, fiscal, technological, geographical, environmental, or in language and format. (ACC02-3)
Adopt Laws Guaranteeing User Privacy/Confidentiality
That the Congress and state legislatures adopt laws guaranteeing the rights of library patrons to privacy and confidentiality in using library information and materials, and urge compliance with existing confidentiality and privacy statutes. (ACC03-1)
Develop First Amendment Awareness Program
That the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science develop a National Freedom Awareness Program to assist libraries in protecting First Amendment rights of privacy. (ACC03-3)
Ensure Non-Conditional Funds for Legal Material
That federal funding policies for libraries not be conditioned upon the content of material legally acquired with such funding. (ACC03-4)
Mandate Open Access to Information
That federal legislation is needed to mandate open access to information. We encourage the Congress to accept the principles of the Freedom to Read Statements, the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights, and its interpretation pertaining to school library media programs. (ACC03-5)
Ensure Access to Information Resources (*PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the Congress amend the Freedom of Information Act to ensure access to all nonexempt information, whether received by the federal government or created at public expense, regardless of physical form or characteristics. The Congress should create an advisory committee composed of library professionals, information industry representatives, and the general public to work with federal agencies to advise on the public's needs. (ACC04-1)
Improve Depository Library Access to Electronic Material and Indexing
That the federal government increase support for the Depository Library Program to ensure improved access to information in electronic form and receipt of currently "fugitive" [difficult-to-locate) publications. We urge the federal government to provide comprehensive indexing and abstracting for all public documents to provide easy and equitable access for all individuals. (ACC04-2)
Create Scientific Research Information Clearinghouse
That the Congress should enact legislation that would create an "ERIC-like*" information clearinghouse for scientific research, including, but not limited to, federally-funded projects. (ACC04-3)
* ERIC: Education Resources Information Center
Define 'National Security' More Clearly
That the President and the Congress more clearly and narrowly define "national security" in order to safeguard the public's right to know. We urge the President to direct federal agencies to cooperate with the Depository Program by providing their information (as referred to in Section 1901, Title 44, U.S. Code) to the system. ACC04-5)
Legislate Preferential Library Telecommunications Rates
That the President and the Congress enact legislation providing preferential telecommunication rates to libraries and encourage states and localities to enact similar legislation. (ACC04-6)
Direct Agencies to Use Library Network for Information Dissemination
That the President and the Congress direct federal agencies to use the nationwide network of libraries as well as the depository library system to disseminate information needed to address and help solve critical national problems. (ACC04-7)
Provide No-Fee Public Access
That public access to information in public fund libraries should be provided on a non-fee basis. (ACC05-1)
Establish Study Group for Underserved Minority Groups
That the President and the Congress establish a study commission to recommend policies and programs to improve access to library and information services for Native Americans, including American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and other under-served U.S. population groups. (ACC05-3)
Improve Support for Blind and Physically Handicapped
That the federal government increase dedicated funding for the Library of Congress Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped to provide expanded and expedited production of Braille, cassette, and disc books and magazines, as well as the necessary equipment for users. Further, that the Congress legislate funding allocations to ensure the uninterrupted free postal transmission of these materials. (ACC06-1)
Support Multicultural, Multilingual Populations
That the Congress fund library and information service programs to serve our multicultural and multilingual (including deaf culture and American Sign Language) population. The Congress should reauthorize and expand the Higher Education Act (Title II-B) to support training and retraining of people to serve multicultural and multilingual populations. (ACC07-1)
Encourage Innovative Approaches for the 1990s
That the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science should encourage vigorous discussion throughout the 1990s to generate innovative approaches to meet the information needs of all potential library and information service users. (ACC09-1)
National information policies were the second highest area of concern for the delegates. A clear overriding theme of the 19 policy proposals is expanding the flow of information, particularly government information, to the people.
Delegates also voiced their concern that the library and information services community needs greater opportunity for input into federal information policy-making. A key recommendation calls for mechanisms so that WHCLIS recommendations and the work of the Conference can be carried forward.
As in a number of issue areas, recommendations underscore the critical role of libraries and information resources in education. Delegates recommend:
Ensure Equal and Timely Access and Delivery
That actions be undertaken to ensure equal and timely access to information materials through:
Amend Copyright Statutes for New Technologies (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That, at an early date, the Congress review and amend copyright legislation to accommodate the impact of new and emerging technologies to:
Guarantee Full, Timely Access to Public Information
That the Congress guarantee open, timely, free, and uninhibited access to public information - owned by the people and created, maintained, and held in trust by their government - regardless of format, except where restricted by law. (NIP03-1)
Eliminate Impediments
That neither the Congress nor the Executive Branch abridge or otherwise restrict the right to public information through inappropriate classification, untimely declassification, or privatization of public information, nor decisions be made to eliminate information collection and dissemination programs solely for budgetary reasons. (NIP03-4)
D. DEVELOPING GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES
Provide Incentives for Literacy Program Development
That the Congress provide incentives to:
Establish an Advisor on Information Policy to the President. (NIP05-1)
Retitle and Restructure the Department of Education
That the President propose to the Congress changing the title of Department of Education to the Department of Education, Libraries and Information Services and restructure the Department accordingly by establishing an Assistant Secretary of Libraries and Information Services. (NIP05-2)
Require Library Participation in Government Actions
That the Congress enact legislation requiring library participation in appropriate governmental actions related to information technology. (NIP05-3)
Enact National Information Policies for Democracy (*PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the Congress enact national information policies which shall include, but are not limited to:
Create Nationwide Information Infrastructure
That government, industry, and libraries work together to create a nationwide information infrastructure and ensure that all information users have free public access to that infrastructure through libraries. (NIP08-1)
Implement and Extend Transmission Network
That the United States adopt the policy that a fiber-optic transmission network or other comparable transmission technologies be extended to all homes and businesses, and work with other public and private entities to implement this policy. (NIP08-2)
Increase Funding of Depository Programs
That funding for Federal Depository Library programs be increased to ensure public access to all government information regardless of format. (NIP08-3)
Focus on Native American History Information
That, recognizing its special relationship to Native American peoples, the federal government immediately begin a comprehensive program to collect, preserve, and make available documents relating to Native American history, emphasizing equitable access, including electronic formats. (NIP08-4)
Plan Decennial Library Conference
That a White House Conference on Library and Information Services be held and fully funded at least every decade to:
Further, that the WHCLIS Task Force be funded in the Conference authorization. (NIP10-1)
Enact Library and Information Services Legislation
That the Congress enact a Library and Information Services Act to carry forward the recommendations of this Conference and implement specific actions, including funding. (NIP10-2)
Encourage Multicultural/Lingual Programs and Staffs (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the President and the Congress enact legislation to authorize and fund a program which:
Designate Libraries As Educational Agencies (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That libraries be designated as educational agencies and that the President include -members of the library community in implementing America 2000, appointing them to serve on relevant task forces and advisory groups. Further, that the Department of education should designate a school library program officer to oversee research, planning, and adoption of the goals of Information Power: Guidelines for School Library Media Programs. the Department of Education shall seek categorical funding for school library media programs. (NIP12-1)
Establish Special Business-Focused Information Centers
That federal assistance and support be established for special information centers in nonprofit institutions and public libraries in the areas of business, science, and technology to serve the Nation's business sector, particularly small businesses. (NIP14-1)
Designate Information Centers As Governmental Function
That the Congress designate federal libraries, archives, and information providers as "inherently governmental" functions, not subject to mandatory contracting out. Further, that the President instruct the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to remove federal libraries from the list of commercial activities appropriate for contracting out.(NIP15-1)
High Conference interest in the potential of networking technology resulted in adoption of 16 recommendations.
Delegates expressed support for a comprehensive program for networking and electronic sharing of resources to make more information available to more Americans. Delegates indicated concern that new information technologies be developed, but developed under broad partnerships and uniform standards which support increased access to information for all users. Partners in building this nationwide information network should include federal, state, and local governments, all types of libraries and information centers, schools, and the private sector. Delegates recommend:
Provide Leadership for Information-Sharing Networks
That the President and the Congress provide leadership and funding to develop a comprehensive plan for actions at the national, state, regional, and local levels to ensure workable and productive networking and sharing of library and information resources to benefit all people. (NET01-1)
Support Collaboration at All Levels in the Community
That all people have access to community information and referral services. To that end, the federal government must encourage local libraries, (including public, academic, private, school, corporate, correctional, and other special libraries) to collaborate actively with all community service providers and agencies so that libraries will serve as full partners in community progress and planning. These local libraries should employ networks and other means of resource sharing to achieve the widest possible dissemination of information, including, but not limited to, jobs, careers, educational opportunities, health care, productivity, public affairs, and the economy. (NET02-1)
Encourage Cooperative Library Volunteer Groups
That establishing Friends of the Library groups be encouraged for all types of libraries as a matter of national library policy. In preparation for the Year 2000, we support President Bush's call for this type of volunteer effort. In addition, Friends groups should be established at state, territorial, and tribal community levels, and be coordinated with local and regional Friends groups. (NET04-1)
Fund Libraries Sufficiently to Aid U.S. Productivity (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That sufficient funds be provided to assure that libraries continue to acquire, preserve, and disseminate those information resources needed for education and research in order for the United States to increase its productivity and stay competitive in the world marketplace. Thus, a local, state, regional, tribal and national commitment of financial resources for library services is an indispensable investment in the Nation's future. Government and library officials and representatives of the private sector must work together to raise sufficient funds to provide the necessary resources for the crucial contribution information services make to the national interest. The President and the Congress should fully support education and research by expanding and fully funding statutes related to information services, such as the Higher Education Act, Medical Library Assistance Act, Library Service and Construction Act (LSCA), College Library Technology Demonstration Grants, the National Research and Education Network (NREN), and other related statutes. Further, recommend amending Chapter 11 of the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act to allocate funds for networking school libraries. (NET05-1)
Support End User Access Through Networks
That the President and the Congress fund and support access to all types of materials and information resources (bibliographic/non-bibliographic, commercial, and noncommercial). Such access should be provided through the development of coordinated networks (electronic, human, organizational). Access for the end user should be addressed when establishing all networks and standards. (NET08-1) -
Encourage Partnerships at All Levels
That public and private partnerships at local, state, and national levels be greatly encouraged and expanded to enable all types of libraries and information providers to work together to support national literacy, productivity, and economic development efforts. All levels of the Nation's library community are urged to pursue public/private partnerships to help fund the initial investment in library networking. (NET10-1)
Recognize Network Value and Assure Involvement
That librarians, other information specialists, and professional organizations recognize the long-term value to library users and themselves of a national network of libraries, assuring that all types of libraries are access points within the network and supporting use of the network. (NET11-1)
Share Resources and Overcome Existing Barriers
That libraries place a high priority on the sharing of resources with improved staffing, space, equipment, and document-delivery methods for inter-library loan to help meet the information needs of the people. Further, that the barriers which exist at the federal and state level that prevent resource sharing among all types of libraries - academic, public, school, and special - must be recognized and overcome. The concept of multi-type library systems must be endorsed as one acceptable model. (NET11-2)
Develop Networking Equity for Low-Density Areas (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That networks connecting small, rural, urban, and tribal libraries be developed and supported at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure basic library services to all end users. Equal opportunity to participate in our country's economic, political, and social life depends upon equal access to information. The federal government should provide additional funding, based on low-density populations, under the Library Services and Construction Act to address the networking needs of small and rural libraries. All rural and low-density population libraries should be provided with federal funds for a minimum of one access terminal on the National Research and Education Network. (NET12-1)
Ensure Statutory Support for Role in America 2000
That to assure all students have equal access to the Nation's library and information resources, federal and state statutes should be enacted and/or revised, as well as adequately funded, to ensure that all school libraries participate in regional, state, and national networks, and in support of America 2000. Every America 2000 New American School should be networked to share information, resources, and ideas using a technologically advanced library media center as its information technology hub. (NET13-1)
Ensure Networking System Compatibility
That networking policies and programs should ensure system compatibility for the free interchange of information by:
Serve As Active Communications Ports
That libraries be encouraged to become active communication ports for legal and government information. (NET16-1)
Designate National Law Library
That the Law Library of the Library of Congress be designated by the Congress as the National Law Library, charged with assuming a leadership role in coordinating access to the literature of the law for the benefit of all library users. (NET16-2)
Develop Policies, Procedures for Information in All Formats
That appropriate federal agencies, in partnership with public and private organizations, develop unfform policies, standards, and guidelines for management, preservation, and access to government information in all print and electronic formats. (TEC02-1)
Share Via a National 'Superhighway' (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the Congress enact legislation creating and funding the National Research and Education Network (NREN) to serve as an information "superhighway," allowing educational institutions, including libraries, to capitalize on the advantages of technology for resource sharing and the creation and exchange of information. The network should be available in all libraries and other information repositories at every level. The governance structure for NREN should include representation from all interested constituencies, including technical, user, and information provider components, as well as government, education at all levels, and libraries. (TEC06-1)
Convene Forum for Research and Development Agenda
That the National Commission on Library and Information Services convene a forum of the library, education, and information communities, both public and private sectors, to develop a coordinated national research and development agenda for library and information technologies and a funding strategy. (TEC07-1)
Eleven recommendations propose to recognize and strengthen the structure and governance of the library's role in a revitalized educational system for all Americans. Proposals call for increased federal support for library programs and to foster library development, while retaining state and local control of the facilities. Delegates recommend:
Establish Congressional Committees
That both the House of Representatives and the Senate establish a Library and Information Services Committee or subcommittee before the next session of Congress. (GOV01-2)
Establish National Institute
That a National Institute for Library and Information Services be established with a scope consistent with federal library legislation. (GOV01-3)
Repeal Book Inventory Tax
That Congress repeal the inventory tax on books. (GOV02-1)
Continue Special Postal Rates
That postal revenue foregone and special mailing rates be continued for libraries, including extra-state jurisdictions. (GOV02-2)
Increase Library Allocation As Centerpiece in Education Initiative
That the amount and share of federal funding for libraries be increased, while retaining state and local maintenance of provisions to make library and information services a centerpiece for the education revolution called for in America 2000. Further, that Library Services and Construction Act be forward funded. (GOV02-3)
Extend Defense Impact Funds Formula to Libraries
That the Congress extend the impact formula from the Department
of Defense budget to support public library services in areas
serving military and other federal defense installations.
(GOV02-4)
Support Funding for Agencies in Information Dissemination
That adequate funding be provided to organizations which have national information missions, such as the Library of Congress, National Library of Medicine, National Agricultural Library, National Archives, National Technical Information Service, Government Printing Office, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Commission on Libraries and Information Science, and other appropriate federal agencies charged with information dissemination. (GOV05-2)
Recognize Libraries As Partners in Lifelong Education (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the President and the Congress formally recognize all libraries as educational institutions for lifelong learning by specifically including libraries in all relevant legislation, regulations, and policy statements. This recognition will provide access to funding for adult learning and training, services to children, and efforts to eliminate illiteracy, while placing libraries in partnership with the bold America 2000 education initiative. The Congress should fund a basic level of services and facilities for public libraries. (GOV05-3)
Reestablish Categorical Funding for School Libraries
That categorical funding be reestablished for school library media programs and resources. (GOV05-5)
Forward Fund LSCA Authorization
That the authorization for the Library Services and Construction Act be fully forward funded as amended and signed by President Bush on March 15,1990. (GOV05-6)
Redirect LSCA Titles to State Library Agencies
That U.S. Department of Education funding resources and administrative responsibilities for Library Services and Construction Act Titles VI (Library Literacy Programs) and VIII (Family Learning Centers) be redirected and allocated to state library agencies. (GOV05-7)
Library and information services programs addressing the needs of children, non-readers, persons with disabilities, and diverse populations were of significant concern to the delegates.
Broad-reaching, inclusive programs to permit libraries to fully achieve their role in the educational process are included in this category - These programs would help all Americans - from preschool to the elderly and from all types of educational, economic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds - to acquire and read the information they need. Delegates recommend:
Establish Statistical Model for Determining Impact/Needs
That the Department of Education establish a statistical model using existing data to:
This model should be developed to permit use at state and local levels. (SER01-1)
Adopt Omnibus Children and Youth Literacy Initiative (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the President and the Congress adopt a four-pronged initiative to invigorate library and information services for student learning and literacy through legislation which would consist of:
School Library Services Title which would:
Public Library Children's Services Title which would provide funding support for:
(Concurrently, funding for programs such as Head Start should be increased for early childhood education.)
Public Library Young Adult Services Title which would provide funding support for:
Partnership with Libraries for Youth Title which would provide funding support to:
Further, all legislation authorizing child care programs, drug prevention programs, and other youth-at-risk programs should include funds for appropriate books and library materials, to be selected in consultation with professional librarians. (SER02-1)
Emphasize Literacy Initiatives to Aid the Disadvantaged (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That literacy for all people must be an ongoing national priority. Because of the crisis in the disadvantaged rural and urban minority community, particular emphasis should be directed to Native American, African-American, Hispanic, Asian-American, and other minority groups. Literacy initiatives should include the development of a national training model for aiding libraries in establishing, implementing and supporting literacy coalitions. To recognize the central role of libraries as providers of adult, youth, family, and work force literacy services, the Congress should amend the National Literacy Act of 1991. Policy and funding approaches should include:
Establish National Coalition for Information Literacy
That the President and the Congress ensure that all Americans have access to sufficient library and information services to enable them to participate meaningfully in the life of our country as citizens and voters, thereby strengthening our democracy, and as producers and consumers, thereby contributing to our economic success. Further, that the President and the Congress establish a National Coalition for Information Literacy to develop a strategic plan for the general development of information literacy skills. Such a coalition would include representatives of schools, libraries, government, labor and industry, parents, and the public at large. (SER05-1)
Build on the Present with People-Oriented Services
That the Congress enable all types of libraries to expand their role in human resource development by building on their present activities and providing resources which complement general education and skills training, facilitate employment preparation and career development, and assist individuals in developing their potential to contribute productively to the goals of the Nation. (SER06-1)
Target Special-Need Populations
That the Congress enable libraries in our increasingly multicultural and diverse society to target relevant services and programs to the special/unique segments of their community populations, including those with disabilities. Libraries should serve as gateways for actively disseminating information to everyone in the U.S., its states, tribes, and territories, including those in remote areas, through both traditional and nontraditional methods and outlets. Services to reach individuals and families of traditionally underserved populations should be comparable to those services offered to traditional users of service-oriented public libraries. Coalitions should be encouraged among libraries and diverse community groups, government institutions, business, and health care providers. (SER07-1)
Expand Service for Equitable Access by Print Handicapped
That the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped of the Library of the Congress establish expanded service to persons who are print-handicapped, including national collections of books and related equipment to create a stronger resource for providing all borrowers with uniformly high quality service. (SER07-2)
Adopt Proactive Policy for the Underaware, Underserved
That federal priority and economic support be given to establishing libraries as primary information sources for the under-served of the Nation, including these major elements:
Further, that the federal government pass legislation to provide funding for libraries to offer programs or serve as a resource in such diverse areas as intergenerational programming, literacy tutoring, parent training, family programs, young adult programming, and early-childhood programs such as Head Start, day care provider programs, homework hot lines, after-hours reference service, and summer enrichment, among others. (SER08-1)
Within the five recommendations dealing with training, the Conference recognized that the library community must reach out to potential and traditional users by demonstrating the value of libraries, clearinghouses, and information centers and educating patrons to benefit the most from those resources. Delegates recommend:
Expand Support for Lifelong Education
That expanded funding for various lifelong learning programs is necessary for libraries to continue their leadership role in the educational process. For example, Jobs Training Partnership Act programs and guidelines should be expanded to foster collaboration between libraries and other training facilities. (TRA01-1)
Establish Presidential Total Quality Management Award
That a Presidential Total Quality Management award, similar to the Malcolm Baldridge Award for business excellence, be established, funded, and administered through the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science to encourage continuous improvement, focus on user empowerment, high standards, statistical measures, and staff development and training. (TRA02-1)
Extend User-Friendly Technology to All Citizens
That user-friendly technology be available to all citizens to enhance their lifelong learning
efforts. (TRA03-2)
Train Students in Library and Information Services
That universities and other educational institutions of higher learning have a responsibility to train their students in the use of libraries and other information services. (TRA04-1)
Provide Grants for Innovative Model Training Projects
That grants be provided for innovative model training projects, dissemination of project evaluations, and replication of validated projects, including establishing a directory of validated projects available to libraries, especially small and rural libraries. (TRA06-1)
Four recommendations propose programs expanding professional and staff development and preparing more people in the library and information services field, especially those interested in working with underserved populations. Delegates recommend:
Study Altemative Approaches with Accredited Schools
That the Division of Library Programs, U.S. Department of Education, fund an exploratory, cooperative study with American Library Association-accredited library schools to develop alternative delivery systems for graduate programs in library and information science for those individuals who are unserved or undeserved. Further, that the Congress establish and fund a National Library Corps so that no person is prevented from obtaining a library education because of a lack of financial means. The Corps would promote early recruitment, scholarships, zero percent interest loans, or loan forgiveness in exchange for employment in areas of critical needs. (The National Library Corps would not preclude the re-authorization and funding of Higher Education Act, Title 11-B, which provides fellowships for the education of professional librarians, including minorities, to serve in the Nation's libraries.) (PER01-1)
Target Graduate Education Funding to Aid Shortage Areas
That federal funds targeted for graduate education in library and information science be made available to individuals whose educational skills and career plans will commit them to serve in geographical areas where shortages of trained personnel exist or where specific skills are needed. (PER01 -2)
Provide Scholarships, Grants, and Loans at All Levels
That the federal government support continuing education in library and information science, staff development, and training by providing scholarships, grants, and loans for library staff at all levels. This would include funds for demonstration projects, such as distance learning, and be made available to individuals whose educational skills and career plans will commit them to serve in geographical areas where shortages of personnel exist, or where specific skills are needed. (PER02-1)
Increase Support to Attract Multicultural Professionals
That funding agencies in the public and private sectors increase their support of fellowships and scholarships for minority library students and library and information professionals and, along with library schools, assume responsibility for the recruitment of culturally-diverse populations into the library and information service professions. Therefore, recommend that libraries and library services of historically black colleges and universities be adequately funded and strengthened to prepare for Workforce 2000 and that special funds be designated for the library and information programs at Atlanta University and North Carolina Central University, which are accredited by the American Library Association. (PER4-1)
Three recommendations support ensuring the nationwide preservation of information resources through implementation of preservation training programs, use of non-paper media, and development of new technologies and procedures. Delegates recommend:
Adopt National Program for Information Preservation (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That the Congress adopt a national policy to ensure the preservation of our information resources. The assessment of preservation needs should be clearly articulated, with adequate funding provided for policy implementation. This policy should include:
Provide Necessary Resources for Preservation
That states* be Provided with the resources necessary to preserve historical and cultural information held in their libraries, archives, and historical organizations. *The term "states" includes the American Indian Tribes, District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands (the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.) (PRE02-1)
Publish Summary Report in Durable Form
That the Summary Report of the White House Conference on Library and Information Services be published in permanent, durable form. (PRE03-1)
The Conference passed two recommendations to improve the marketing of library and information services, calling for an evaluative study on the impact of libraries in the communities they serve and the creation of a model library and information services marketing program. Delegates recommend:
Create Model Library Marketing Programs (* PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION)
That model programs be created to market libraries to their publics, emphasizing the library as a resource to meet educational, business, and personal needs. The models should promote all elements and components of the library community. The Congress also should appropriate funds to create the models for implementation on the local level. (MAR01-1)
Evaluate and Develop Model Assessment
That the President direct the De artment of Education to research and evaluate the impact of libraries in their communities and assess community needs. A model should be developed for use by state and local governments to promote the effectiveness of libraries in enhancing the productivity of the American workforce. (MAR01-3)
PETITIONS
(As adopted by Conference delegates)
On Handicapped Young People
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that this Conference bring attention to the need for appropriate reading materials and programming for children and young adults with assorted disabilities: Perceptual, neurological, binocularity, ocular motility, dyslexia, etc., as well as blindness, and to increase the education of librarians adequately to meet the demands of our handicapped young people. (PETITION 01)
On the People's Information Bill of Rights
The People's Information Bill of Rights:
On Air Mail Rates for Insular and Outlying Areas
RESOLVED that delegates to the WHCLIS recommend that the federal government request the U.S. Postal Service to modify its code to allow insular territories and commonwealths in the Pacific and Caribbean and the noncontiguous states of Alaska and Hawaii to receive air mail service for delivery of library materials sent via special library third- or fourth-class rates. (PETITION 03)
On Native American Library and Information Services
A. General Policy
1. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that it shall be the policy of the federal government to ensure that all Native Americans possess a basic program of public library and information services, including adequate facilities, print and nonprint resource collections, equipment, properly trained library and information personnel, and regional Native American networking infrastructures, and to encourage all states to adopt this policy within their state library-development programs.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in order to provide for the proper implementation of this policy, Title IV of the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) should be amended as follows to include:
Part A. Basic grants and supplemental entitlement should be funded by an LSCA set aside.
Part B. Special Projects. Provision of $5,000,000 per fiscal year with three years of forward funding with a 20 percent matching requirement, continuation contingent upon positive evaluation.
Part C. Training and Education. Provision of $1,000,000 for the first year, plus such sums as are required for subsequent years for 1) fellowships, 2) traineeships, 3) institutes and workshops.
Part D. Research and demonstration studies.
Part E. National Technical Assistance, Training, and Information Technology Center. Part F. Literacy. Discretionary funds for children, youth, and adults.
Part G. National Advisory Committee on Native American Libraries, members to be appointed as follows: 4 by House; 4 by Senate, 4 by President, 4 by Chair of NCLIS - 10 of these members shall be Native Americans nominated by Native American governments, organizations, and communities. This committee will be under the jurisdiction of the permanent independent National Commission on Libraries and Information Science, and will have a separate appropriation to carry out these activities.
Part H. All programs will be administered by a special Library Services for Native Americans Branch within the Office of Library Programs (Office of Educational Research and Improvement), for which Indian preference shall be applied for staffing according to regulations prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Additionally, adequate technical support and sufficient funds shall be provided to enable the professional staff to visit 10 percent of all program grantees annually.
B. Technical Amendments to Legislation Affecting
Native American Libraries
1. BE IT RESOLVED that the Children's Television Act of 1989 be amended to include a Native American set-aside providing the following:
a. Require the FCC to mandate children's programming to include subjects especially representing acceptable and appropriate depictions of Native American history and culture.
b. Ensure that current positive lifestyles and contributions of Native American people are represented accurately.
2. RESOLVED FURTHER that the National Museum of the American Indian Act be amended to provide for establishment of a National Native American Library Center within the Museum of the American Indian to:
a. Implement the long-range strategic plan for development of library and information services to Native Americans as continually modified, monitored, and reevaluated by the tribal governments operating under it.
b. Serve as a stimulus and focal point for the preservation, production, collection, and distribution of materials of interest to Native American libraries.
c. Operate as a clearinghouse and referral center for materials (including oral history and language materials).
d. Provide technical assistance through a bank of Native American resource people who can provide intensive, short-term help through a "TRAILS-like" on-going program (the TRAILS program was a telephone based materials and technical assistance clearinghouse).
e. Facilitate a national network capability.
f. Establish links between the National Native American Library Center and high school and college counselors regarding library career training opportunities for Native American students.
g. Encourage a horizontal approach to information. access funding within BIA and other federal agencies so that health, social services, economic development, job training, and other programs carry their own information services support components.
3. RESOLVED FURTHER that the Depository Library Program Act be amended to permit each tribal government or reservation to designate one library on or near a reservation as a depository library for publications of the U.S. Government.
4. RESOLVED FURTHER that the High-Performance Computing Act of 1990 be amended to include Native American involvement in a coordinated federal research program to ensure continued U.S. leadership in high-performance computing.
5. RESOLVED FURTHER that the Higher Education Act of 1966, which includes Native
American Culture and Arts programs, be amended to provide the rewriting of Native
American materials, including textbooks to correct inaccuracies as written by non-Native
American authors and historians.
6. RESOLVED FURTHER that the Hawkins-Stafford Elementary Secondary Act be amended to provide for cooperative library programs in conjunction with other childserving agencies. Schools serving Native American children should be enabled to provide special after-school and homework help and tutoring programs in collaboration with other agencies providing similar help.
7. RESOLVED FURTHER that the Community Services Act, which contains provision for the administration of Native Americans, be amended to provide:
a. Family literacy programs for all Native American communities.
b. Coordination of existing resources such as child-care centers, health care programs, foster grandparents programs, and adult basic education programs.
c. Culturally based programs which incorporate the oral tradition, Native American cultural materials, and the utilization of elders for intergenerational impact.
8. RESOLVED FURTHER to amend the Act authorizing the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to mandate that NCES collect statistical information on tribal libraries and tribal archives, including the same questions collected for other library services and additional questions, as needed, to reflect the uniqueness of tribal collections.
9. RESOLVED FURTHER that the National Endowment for Humanities Act be amended to set aside no less than $500,000 or 10 percent (whichever is the greater) annually for
special purpose grants to tribal libraries
C. Information Technology
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that grants be made available to Native American libraries for the purchase of high technology equipment and computer hardware and software.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that technical training be provided for Native American library staff to adapt and develop more appropriate and a greater number of technical tools to meet the specific needs of Native American libraries.
3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a major initiative, including funding, be provided for telecommunications for Native American library information systems (i.e., telephones, facsimile, satellite, fiber optics, and other state-of-the-art technology).
D. Sovereignty
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that libraries be asked to implement policies which expressly support tribal sovereignty, and
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the White House Conference on Library and Information Services adopt and express, as a part of their library policy, support for the existence of tribes and their inherent sovereignty.
E. Professional Development of Library Personnel
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that scholarships, internships, and training assistance funds be provided under a special legislative initiative to:
a. Develop Native American library professionals and paraprofessionals.
b. Acquire resources and funding for continuing education and professional development of Native American library personnel and library and information supporters, particularly in the areas of oral history, preservation, audio-visual production, and management of small/rural libraries.
C. Support travel and stipends for representatives in fieldwork and practice.
d. Allow travel, honoraria, and housing for resource people to visit Native American libraries.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that training and development programs and funds be provided for local community-based boards, volunteers, and tribal members.
F. Information and Cultural Needs
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that federal and tribal programs providing support to organizations active in the area of cultural and historical preservation need to provide stronger financial, technical, and administrative support.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that federal programs which depend on state-directed boards to administer grant applications should discontinue this process and establish boards of tribal people actively involved in similar programs and tribal elders to aid in grant application review.
3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all federal and federally-funded programs which hold information about a specific tribe provide copies of that material to the tribe of origin, or, where adequate facilities exist, that arrangements be made for the return of original
material.
4. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that an inventory of tribal resources and archives shall be conducted and continued on an ongoing basis, at both tribal and off-research libraries.
G. National Native Library Technical Assistance Center
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Congress authorize the establishment of a National Native Library Technical Assistance Center and appropriate, adequate, ongoing funding to provide:
a. Technical assistance in library operations, funding, grant writing, etc.
b. Staff training, both on-site and remote.
c. Information and referral via a toll free number.
d. Monthly newsletter.
e. Development and dissemination of training materials, such as manuals, videos.
f. Materials on training, selection, and other professional issues.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Center must be governed by a Board of Directors, with membership comprised of at least 60 percent Native Americans, whose purpose will be to serve the needs of Native American communities to improve library services and the advancement of information technology.
H. Dynamic Role of Native Libraries
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that libraries and Native governments and communities be given resources to encourage matching library activities to community programs and priorities.
2. AND FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED that Native American libraries be encouraged to institute innovative programs based on community needs.
I. Information Clearinghouse
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that a national clearinghouse and information center, with regional branches to allow networking within the Native American community, be established.
J. Intemational Cooperation
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that appropriate legislation be enacted and international agreements made, particularly with Canada, to permit open and speedy electronic and manual delivery of documents and services across boundaries, and
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that international cooperation be sought to facilitate access to appropriate foreign collections.
K. State-Tribal Cooperation
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that all states in which reservations are located and/or have significant Native American populations be urged to promptly implement similar legislation.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the federal government encourage, by legislation or policy, state governments to enter into a memorandum of understanding with tribal governments and libraries, when desired and requested by the Native American people.
3. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congress encourage states to recognize Native American governments, organizations and libraries as direct recipients of stateadministered funds allocated to library and information service programs.
4. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Native Americans be represented on various policy boards and organizations at the local state and national level. 5. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this initiative be accom plished in recognition and support of Native American sovereignty and developmental needs.
L. Standards and Certification
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Congress should provide resources for Native American government organizations and libraries to come together to develop library standards, including personnel certification and staffing standards specific to their special program needs.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congress should mandate that federal and state agencies recognize Native American government- or organization-operated library/ information service certification and training programs as complying, for all purposes, with state or federal standards.
M. Govemment Library Relationships
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Congress of American Indians membership issue a policy statement supporting a priority for the role and needs of our libraries.
N. Private Sector
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Indian pre-conference to the White House Conference on Library and Information Services, promote and encourage foundations and businesses to assist in the development of Indian libraries.
0. Scholarships
1. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Congress establish a scholarship or fellowship program for Native American individuals for baccalaureate or graduate degrees in library science or library management with certificatioyl.
2. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congress establish "a scholarship or fellowship program for which Native Americans and organizations are eligible to enable the Native American entities to negotiate with schools of library science to provide specific academic programs to meet the special needs of Native American libraries and information centers. (PETITION 07)
On Creating a New Generation of Libraries
1. Congress shall retain and expand the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) to assist in the redefinition of library and information services to children and youth, families and communities, including training, needs assessment, community coalition building, cultural awareness and sensitivity, and similar issues that work toward and support community-wide strategies for achieving our goals.
2. Congress shall include in the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act (HEA) support for the recruitment, training, and retraining of people to serve multicultural, multilingual populations.
3. Congress shall support research and demonstration projects on model library and information programs to serve multicultural, multilingual populations.
4. Congress shall enact legislation to provide categorical aid for the Nation's school libraries, media services, and resources.
5. A national bibliographic database shall be developed to ensure in the identification of and access to multicultural, multilingual resources and materials through linkages among institutions, collections, and communities that serve their needs.
6. The U.S. Department of Education shall acknowledge the number of chiIC4-ren from multicultural, multilingual populations who are being served by the Nation's schools by:
a. Emphasizing the establishment and strengthening of school library media programs in every school in the Nation.
b. Encouraging the development of curricula which value and celebrate the Nation's pluralism and diversity by supporting programs of training and retraining of people who work in the Nation's schools in cultural awareness and sensitivity.
c. Disseminating the results of research through the Nation's libraries.
7. Congress shall recognize library and information service programs as significantly contributing to the lifelong learning of the Nation by encouraging the use of libraries as providers of literacy services to multilingual, multicultural populations. (PETITION 08)
On Automating and Networking Libraries on Guam
That the Government of Guam and the federal government appropriate funds needed for library and information automation, networking, and training to link island libraries, clearinghouses, and information centers. (PETITION 09)