The American Library Association (ALA) released their
annual State of American Libraries report this week. Highlights
include:
Libraries served over 95% of the US population this
year. Half of those who visited the library said they did so to get help from a librarian. While actual visits to the library decreased, circulation is the
highest in 10 years. Circulation of children’s materials has increased by nearly
30% during the last decade.
Libraries strive not just to keep up with
technology, but to lead the way. They offer computer and internet access,
instruction in new technologies, and ebooks. The library community and
publishers continue to search for equitable solutions that will allow libraries
to buy and lend ebooks while allowing publishers a fair profit.
Libraries “offer a lifeline to people trying to adapt to
challenging economic circumstances by providing technology training and online
resources for employment, access to government resources, continuing education,
retooling for new careers”, according to ALA President Maureen Sullivan.
Budget cuts, branch closings, and reduced
hours and staffing continue to plague many libraries across America. As a result, libraries are looking to Friends groups
for support.
“Public libraries in America continue as strong anchors for their communities, valued by the people they serve and striving to meet the changing needs of their service populations. Public libraries continue to be an essential service for the nation’s children”, said IMLS Director Susan Hildreth.
