Public Libraries in the United States

Book & CD-ROM. Public libraries provide critical learning and information resources for individuals, families, local businesses, and non-profits. They broaden opportunities for people of all ages through access to collections and technology and by providing expert assistance from information professionals. Many public libraries anchor community improvement efforts by providing programming that addresses the health, educational, and workforce development needs of local residents. In communities across the country, local libraries compliment commercial development activity and provide attractive neighbourhood amenities in residential settings. In FY 2010, there were 8,951 public libraries in the 50 states and the District of Columbia with 17,078 public library branches and bookmobiles. This total translates to approximately 3.0 public libraries and 5.8 outlets for every 100,000 people. This book focuses on the character of public library services, funding and resource changes, and current trends in the public library workforce, and also highlights statistics at the national level. Data from all states has been aggregated to provide current national estimates and to examine trends from prior years.