THE CHANGING ROLE OF THE TEXAS STATE LIBRARY: ALTERNATIVE MODELS FOR COORDINATION OF STATEWIDE LIBRARY SERVICE

This study uses historical and survey research techniques. The historical development of state level library service during the nineteenth century in the United States and in Texas is examined. The development of the Texas State Library program is reviewed from 1909 through 1978. After an in-depth consideration of this program development along with its complex relationship with the state library association and national planning, two surveys are included. One survey measures the opinion of Texas library leaders as to what they consider the ideal role for a state library agency. The second survey looks at the political strength of the agency as reflected in the opinions of legislators who serve on committees making decisions regarding the agency. After a summary and conclusions from the data gathered in the historical review and the two surveys, the final chapter sets forth alternative models for the coordination of statewide library service in Texas through the Texas State Library.