1st Edition

Books and Libraries in American Society during World War II Weapons in the War of Ideas

By Patti Clayton Becker Copyright 2005
    304 Pages
    by Routledge

    302 Pages
    by Routledge

    World War II presented America's public libraries with the daunting challenge of meeting new demands for war-related library services and materials with Depression-weakened collections, inadequate budgets and demoralized staff, in addition to continuing to serve the library's traditional clientele of women and children seeking recreational reading. This work examines how libraries could respond to their communities need through the use of numerous primary and secondary sources.

    Chapter Introduction: Imposing Frontages on Important Streets; Chapter 1 More Than Pleasant Luxuries: Background; Chapter 2 We Have to Act Immediately: Responding to the National Emergency; Chapter 3 Moving Picture Houses and Dance Halls: Seeking Support; Chapter 4 To Meet the Needs of a Nation at War: Libraries Respond; Chapter 5 Avoid Frightening the Librarian: Implementing the Policy Statement; Chapter 6 Praise the Lord and Pass the New Editions: Victory Book Campaigns; Chapter 7 A Spell of Rough Weather: Wartime Challenges; Chapter 8 Beginning a New Era: Postwar Hopes;

    Biography

    Patti Clayton Becker

    'meticulously researched... The book's content is complemented by a detailed index; a fifteen-page bibliography that will provide excellent guidance' - Joanne E. Passet, Libraries and the Cultural Record