From books to puppet shows, from author signings to computer research and from special collections to very important rules, readers learn about libraries and the value of reading, sharing, and community in this book.

Block (librarian at St. Ambrose U., Iowa) asked 65 directors of "thriving" American public libraries to rank the qualities most vital to their success, in hopes of assisting libraries struggling with lack of funding, resources, employee training, and information technology. Details on the eight most essential qualities are discussed here, beginning with the highest ranked (focus on children and teens) and moving through the library as a public place,...