LIBRARY

The latest entry in the series that includes Theatre (2000) and Airport (not reviewed) shows public and behind-the-scenes activities in a large generic public library building. A four-page foldout section introduces all the rooms and services described in the body of the book. Starting with a definition of a library, Malam goes on to show state-of-the-art models of library service within the building. Readers learn about the special features of the adult circulating, reference, and rare-book collections, among others. They see the technology designed to serve patrons with special needs, and the audiovisual and multimedia library. Also included are the children’s library and the bookmobile. Sections on conservation, bookbinding, the history of libraries, and important libraries in the world complete the subject. Two pages of text and illustrations for each topic include a number key, which refers to the foldout section. Drawings, sketches, and insets with explanatory pointers give pictorial details that expand on the information in the text. Each section is divided into three parts: a bold-faced title, a two- or three-sentence précis of the subject, and three or four paragraphs of additional information and illustrations. The information on the bindery is particularly good, as it systematically and clearly explains the entire process in words and pictures. A capsule time line of library history written on the spines of untidily shelved books lends a bit of visual humor to this otherwise serious treatment. A glossary and index, as well as an attractive format, help this short book give a lot of information. (Nonfiction. 8-12)