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Describes how Taylor's life experiences shaped her writing. Discusses nine of her books, what influenced them, and the context in which they were written. (SG)

Discussion of censorship against books in public and school libraries focuses on intellectual freedom; First Amendment rights; and curriculum development to include lessons on the First Amendment. Offers suggestions for activities focusing on censorship and banned books. (LRW)

Mildred B. Taylor's pioneering works for children in the 1970s helped to inspire other African American writers to write children's books about African American characters. Her books, which chronicle the history of one African American family, the Logans, are examined.

The article offers several scenes from the book "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," by Betty Smith which could be used by librarians as inspiration in serving young library patrons in the U.S. It mentions that the scenes show that the risk of diminished library services may have the greatest impact on the youngest library users in the country. It notes that library professionals must lobby politicians to acknowledge the significance of library services to all patrons particularly children. It cites suggestions from the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) to aid librarians in serving young patrons.

The article discusses voluntarism within the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC). The organization's membership is examined and includes librarians from across the U.S. and around the world, retired librarians, and young librarians. Ways in which members may serve the organization are explored and include attending membership meetings, observing committee work, and taking part in conference programs. The author also discusses ALSC involvement in the @ Your Library public awareness campaign developed by the American Library Association (ALA).