The problem selected for the study in the recent research project was to determine the effectiveness of the Sour Lake, Texas, High School library program as it was reflected through the reading experiences of the thirty-one first-year high school pupils for the year 1945-1946. These reading experiences were analyzed on the basis of the number and the classifications of the books charged from the library by the pupils for use in the various academic subjects. For the purposes of the study, the books were grouped in accordance with the arrangement of the Dewey Decimal System of classification, which is the system used by the school librarian in classifying and cataloging all library materials. Although the principal phase of the investigation involved a study of the books circulated, an analysis was made also of the books and other library materials used for factual information and for special classroom assignments.

The aim of this diploma thesis is characterization and evaluation of programs and projects, which are proceeding in United States of America to support children's reading skills. The first part is devoted to reading to children from birth to six years, impact of books to children, and to factors, which are influencing the beginning of reading. In other chapters are presented projects of American Library Association and its division Association for Library Services to Children. In the following, the programs of selected libraries and non-profit organization are mentioned (for example Mother Goose on the Loose, Birth to six or Reach out and Read). In the last part is described the situation in Czech Republic. There are presented projects like Celé Česko čte dětem, Rosteme s knihou, Poprvé do školy - Poprvé do knihovny, and also cooperation of libraries and kindergartens.