Book Description

This research agenda examines ways to improve availability and access to public services for individuals living in rural areas. Five articles focus on general conceptual and methodological issues pertaining to research on services, and are applicable to a wide range of services such as health and education. Discussions concentrate on public service problems in rural areas experiencing chronic population loss, loss of basic industries, and aging population. "Settlement Patterns and the Provision of Services in the North Central Region" (Edward W. Hassinger) examines the unique historical role of American rural communities as providers of services for rural populations in the Midwest. "Spatial Aspects of Public Services in Rural Areas" (Roger J. Beck) attempts to reconceptualize relationships between the local area and rural service delivery, given the demographic and economic changes described by Hassinger. "Ecological Correlates of Rural Service Delivery: The Case of Rural Health Care" (Jack Geller) uses a human ecological perspective to conceptualize the problem of providing services for persons in sparsely populated counties. "Community Leadership and Decision-making in the Provision of Rural Public Services" (Janet S. Ayres) examines relationships between local rural communities and the formal structures of local government. "Community Social Organization and the Coproduction of Public Services in Rural Areas" (David J. O'Brien) proposes an approach to conceptualizing and measuring more effective relationships between rural communities and formal service providers. The final section outlines specific steps that can be taken to develop a coherent research agenda. Contains 118 references. (KS)