Most public libraries do not now have meaningful reader advisory service. Is this likely to change in the future? Why?
Reader advisory service may range from full service to self-service. Does the Internet, with all of its resources, make self-service much more feasible than before? Why?
There is some discussion of "virtual reader advisory service." What would that include? How would it work?
If you became head of a medium sized public library, what would you do about reader advisory service? What would you do first?
Traditionally, reader advisory work has emphasized locally prepared annotations, reading lists, and the like. Is this still necessary today? Why?
Book talks have received considerable attention in reader advisory work for children and teens. How important are they for those who work with adults?
Genre fiction is increasingly available in digital formats, often via WWW sites. What should public libraries be doing about this development? Should preservation be a consideration?
Chain bookstores, especially the super stores, have encouraged many Americans to visit the bookstore. What might we do to encourage people to think of the public library as the community popular reading center?
In the past, librarians were almost always book readers. Is this still true today? How important is it?
Reader advisory work has a strong, continuing tradition in youth services, but is often marginal in adult services. Why?
How important will fiction reading, especially genre fiction reading, be for the public library in the future?
To what degree are people likely to need help in finding a good read in the future?
Current awareness is obviously essential for quality reader advisory service. How would you remain up to date with genre fiction and reader advisory work?
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