Preface

One of the enduring "best sellers" in Illinois library literature is reprinted in this issue in response to long-standing demand for the publication. The Book Repair Manual, which was developed by Robert J. Milevski as part of the Illinois Cooperative Conservation Program in the mid-80s, was reprinted in Illinois Libraries ten years ago. Since that time, the manual has also been available as a separately printed publication but increasing requests for the piece has warranted a 1995 reprint in this journal.

We spend hours each week talking about the impact of the electronic information highway, but we are aware that books will always be a part of library service. The repair of books remains a necessary part of our professional culture, and I hope that the increased availability of the Book Repair Manual will assist library staff throughout the state. The manual is truly an enduring classic.

The article by Ezequiel Vargas on the role of trustees with the information superhighway comes at a very opportune time. A 1994 poll by Louis Harris and Associates found that 66% of those surveyed did not know anything about the information superhighway. Those that had heard or read something about it did not necessarily know what it was. Despite all that the library community has heard, Mr. Vargas's article is valuable to not only public library trustees, its intended audience, but other segments of the library community as well.

The other contributions to Illinois Libraries are also welcomed, and I hope that the thoughts espoused in the articles provide some ideas for implementation at your library.

Kathleen L. Bloomberg
Editor, Illinois Libraries

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