Over six million children and three million spouses are severely assaulted each year by family members.
Abuse is a major threat to American families.
As with mental illness, domestic violence is a heavily guarded secret. One of the first places people often go for information is the local public library where they can browse the shelves for books or magazines or possibly ask for information. The Institute Library and the Harrell Center were interested in knowing the extent and currency of public library collections and the types of information librarians were asked to provide. A survey was developed and sent to each of the public libraries in the state asking a number of questions on collections, reference, equipment availability, liaison work, types of materials they would like to see developed, and other issues. The Harrell Center Martha Coulter, Dr.