This book is designed to provide the information needed to start a new agricultural library. The guide covers a wide range of topics including information sources, acquisitions procedures, and public relations. It provides addresses of publishers and information sources; a list of common abbreviations; a ground plan for a library; and information on library equipment. Topics covered in the six chapters are as follows: (1) "Collection Building" explains scientific information, selection criteria, and information on journals, series, books, pamphlets, and reference books; (2) "Ways of Overcoming a Shortage of Funds" lists methods of overcoming funding problems; (3) "Library Personnel" examines training, job descriptions, and professional reading for library staff; (4) "Library Management" covers ordering, catalogues, classification, loans, automation, services, statistics, and budgets; (5) "Agricultural Information Sources" lists online literature retrieval sources; hosts and vendors; compact discs; and information on institutions relevant to agriculture libraries; and (6) "Library Instruction and Public Relations" covers library instruction, planning, and public relations. Included in the appendices are lists of agricultural journals, reference books, and library science journals. (JLB)
