Column Editor's Note. This column focuses on the closely related topics of strategic planning and assessment in all types of libraries. The column examines all aspects of planning and assessment including (but not limited to) components, methods, approaches, trends, tools and training. Interested authors are invited to submit articles to the editor at wvdole@ualr.edu. Articles on both theory and practice and examples of both successful and unsuccessful attempts in all types of libraries are invited. In this issue, William Buck examines the literature about the impact of the Great Recession of 2007-2009 and provides a blueprint for library administrators facing the challenges of increased user demand and static or decreased funding. Although he is writing from a public library perspective, he provides guidelines useful for libraries of all types. Mr. Buck has spent over 25 years in academic and special collections libraries and has extensive experience with circulation, reference, and information retrieval services. He received a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master's degree with academic certificate in library management from the University of North Texas. He currently works in the talking book program of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission providing support to special needs patrons. He writes on library issues and lives in Austin, Texas.

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A traditional expectation for publicly funded libraries is that they should be institutions where patron records are kept confidential and a standard of privacy is maintained. After the events of 911, methods increasing search and surveillance powers and reducing legal protections were drafted into law as the "Patriot Act." Searching patron records can be rendered ineffective by library procedures that keep identifiable information to a minimum. Librarians must make responsible collection development decisions while avoiding the pitfalls of censorship. Information has value, and can help or hinder those in the pursuit of goals. Outsourcing collection development decisions is, therefore, not an ideal practice. Librarians should use their training and experience in the selection of information materials.