Library and information needs of Latinos in rural Dunklin County, Missouri.

Abstract

Libraries in rural Missouri are struggling to provide adequate services to a growing number of Spanish-speaking residents. This article examines the barriers to effective library services through the evaluation of a survey conducted among Latinos in Dunklin County, Missouri in 2002. Successful library outreach to the Spanish-speaking in other areas of the country have included Spanish language materials, child-friendly programs in Spanish and promotion of the library services through media outlets which target the Hispanic population.