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This guide is designed to assist librarians and administrators both in assessing the strengths and weaknesses of their public library service to youth and in making immediate and long range plans to reach desired goals. The standards provide a basis for understanding the scope and purpose of youth services. A philosophical statement on service precedes guidelines on materials collections, services, and facilities for both children and young adults. Specifics on collection size, reference services, programming, and working with community agencies are included. Combined sections for both children and young adult specialities cover staffing and management, budget preparation, goals and objectives, professional development, and involvement with associations. The final section focuses on the role of the specialist, emphasizing that library service to youth is the cornerstone of the public library profession. Appendices include statements on competencies for serving youth, restricted access to library materials, and free access to libraries for minors. (Author/THC)