Ten years ago, OCLC published From Awareness to Funding: A Study of Library Support in America.
Now it has partnered with the American Library Association and its Public Library Association division to explore how attitudes have shifted.
Key findings
- 55% of voters view the public library as an essential local institution
- 53% see libraries as a source of community pride
- 58% say public libraries advance education
- 51% believe libraries enhance the quality of life of any community
What’s changed since 2008Libraries are increasingly seen as a community hub for human connection and lifelong learning
- Significantly more voters today (43%) describe the library as a place that offers activities and entertainment you can’t find anywhere else in the community than did in 2008 (34%)
- 48% believe this is an important role for libraries (38% in 2008)
- 44% see their local library as a place for people in the community to gather and socialise (35% in 2008)
- 42% of voters feel that the library helps provide people with skills for the workplace (35% in 2008)
- 35% say the library provides programmes for immigrants and non-English speakers (25% in 2008)
Some traditional library services are used less often
- Use of nonfiction (53% now vs 67% ten years ago)
- Print reference material (34% now vs 51% in 2008)
- In person visits are down to 70% from 79%
The report identifies some ways in which public libraries can influence the way the US public feels about them including:
- Targeted public awareness efforts
- Amplifying resources and impacts for school age children
- Identifying and cultivating Super Supporters
- Clarify misconceptions about funding
The full report is available to download here and is well worth reading.