Cooper (political science, University of Vermont) considers the role of contracts in the relationships between governmental organizations and other agencies, communities, nonprofit groups, and private firms. Instead of debating the merits of privatization, he offers guidance on forming, operating, terminating, and transforming contracts amidst the complexities of inter-governmental relations. Chapters focus on criteria and trade-offs, agreement and authority, integration, operations, separation and transformation, and capacity building. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)