The Library Research Round Table (LRRT) was founded in 1968 to contribute toward the extension and improvement of library research; to provide public program opportunities for describing and evaluating library research projects and for disseminating their findings; to inform and educate ALA members concerning research techniques and their usefulness in obtaining information with which to reach administrative decisions and solve problems; and expand the theoretical base of the field. LRRT also, serves as a forum for discussion and action on issues related to the literature and information needs for the field of library and information science.

The 2007-2008 Library Research Round Table Committee

• Chair, John C. Bertot
• Chair-Elect, Denise Agosto
• Past-Chair, Joan E. Stein
• Secretary/Treasurer, Linda Z. Cooper
• Member-at-Large, Allyson Carlyle
• Member-at-Large, Jennifer W. Lang
• Member-at-Large, Jeffrey Pomerantz
• Round Table Councilor, Sarah M. Pritchard
• Staff Liaison, Letitia Earvin

Currently the LRRT is looking at the relationship of Libraries and E-Government:

Libraries have long engaged in E-Government services — from locating government information to tax forms. Increasingly, however, libraries are on the front lines of today’s E-Government efforts. On a regular basis, users come to the library seeking assistance with government programs, websites, forms, and computer and Internet use. During times of disaster and recovery, libraries serve as shelters and emergency response centers, and users come to the library for assistance with completing emergency benefits forms online as well as general relief services. And, as governments cut back on basic services through the deployment of E-Government services, librarians serve as case workers helping to meet user needs.

The American Library Association (ALA) will be holding a session exploring E-Government in libraries from multiple service, issues, and policy perspectives. The goals of the session are to:

• Provide an overview of E-Government in libraries;
• Identify best practices in library E-Government service approaches;
• Provide an update regarding E-Government policy initiatives; and
• Identify future directions through the ALA Committee on Legislation E-Government Services Initiative.

The session is sponsored by the Library Research Round Table and co-sponsored by the Government Documents Round Table and the ALA Washington Office. Please stay tuned for more to come.