STATEWIDE FILM SERVICE FOR UNITED STATES PUBLIC LIBRARIES: A SURVEY OF STATE LIBRARY AGENCIES

The purpose of this descriptive research study was to survey statewide film service for U.S. public libraries through state library agencies.;A review of the related literature provided the background information for the development of a survey questionnaire to gather the data. The population consisted of the fifty state library agencies. The number of usable questionnaires totaled 42 which gave a 90 percent level of confidence in the data which were analyzed.;The findings of the research provided the following conclusions: (1) Eighty-six percent of the responding agencies operate or contract for statewide film service. (2) The sources of funding were divided between 47% state and 45% federal. (3) The major expenditures were 46% for films and 35% salaries. (4) The major users were public libraries followed by state agencies, academic libraries, universities and community groups. (5) Catalogs were distributed by all respondents. Inservice workshops were used by 57%.;Implications from this study indicate a need for standardization of methods for collecting and recording statistical data related to circulation and holdings. Cooperation and communication from state to state must be addressed as film prices rise and federal funds are threatened.;The state library agencies of the United States were surveyed to determine if there are patterns emerging as to the (1) types of services offered; (2) financial support given; (3) type of use made of the service; (4) actual users; (5) how these factors interrelated.;Recommendations for further study are: (1) Investigate automatic film booking systems. (2) Examine the distribution methods of media. (3) Develop a standard for statistics. (4) In two years compare the budget data to determine if there has been a federal cutback. (5) Investigate in detail the organization and operation of various regional film services.