State publications

Many people contribute to this column, engaging in the difficult task of identifying the few best documents published by their states in the preceding year. They make their choices for several reasons: because the publication addresses a timely issue or has research value, or because it is a practical guide of use to a large audience. The publications selected may reflect the unique character or heritage of a particular state or may address conditions or situations endemic to that state. More often though, state publications describe local analyses or solutions to nationwide problems. In the wake of the Clinton Health Care Plan, many state governments tackled the issue of health care for its citizens. Annotations of state health care plans for Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Kansas, and Tennessee are presented. Many other contributions examine health conditions or specific diseases. The number of publications dealing with health and health care issues is slightly topped by those on environmental, conservation, business, and economic issues. The environment-related publications that were submitted address everything from rivers (CA) to mining practices (MT). from solid waste management (WV) to wetland protection (NH). Job training (NJ), temporary employment (KY), and workforce quality (MD) are a few of the many business and economic issues addressed. Publications that address a reevaluation of the education system (VA TN, MS, UT) and reorganization of government (MN, DE) also reflect national mood and trend. Crime and justice, families and child care, and minority issues are also popular topics. For a bit of local history, see Wisconsin's Rustic Roads …. South Carolina Highway Historical Marker Guide, Emigrant Trails of Southern Idaho, Flatwater … (NE), or Fruitful Fields … (HI). This column could not be accomplished without the contributions of many state publications specialists. I greatly appreciate the participation of the following contributors: