Related Resources
Recent Fast Facts 
- More Opportunities, Lower Pay: 2012 Insights from Library Jobline
- Early Literacy Information on Colorado Public Library Websites
- Colorado School Libraries and the Use of Web Technologies, 2011-2012
- 21st-Century Instruction Strategies in Colorado School Libraries
- Colorado's Public Computer Centers: Bridging the Great Digital Divide
- See more Fast Facts.
Recent LRS News
- New Public Library Data Tools
- New Fast Facts: More Opportunities, Lower Pay: 2012 Insights from Library Jobline
- BTOP Outcome Evaluation Presentation at the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition Annual Conference
- Slides are now available for our Computers in Libraries presentation
- Join us at Computers in Libraries next week!
- Learn how to strategically plan and market your library's computer services based on user profiles at our 4/16 webinar
- Find more LRS news on our blog
Related Data Tools
A closer look at...
The Library Research Service's A Closer Look series examines library issues in greater detail than the Fast Facts forum allows. A Closer Look reports are done periodically, when appropriate situations arise.
The Public Computer Centers Project: Coloradans Benefit from Access and Training
By Robbie Marks and Keith Curry Lance
Through a $3.3 million, two year project that began in spring 2011, the Colorado State Library is overseeing the installation of 88 new and enhanced Public Computer Centers (PCCs) throughout Colorado. These PCCs provide internet access and computer training to foster broadband adoption. In 2012, LRS surveyed more than 7,300 PCC users to determine the impacts the PCCs are having on their lives. The results showed that the top outcomes of respondents who used the PCCs during open lab times were to communication with someone (52%), look for employment (38%), and use the printer, scanner, or fax (33%). Top outcomes of computer class attendees included getting better at using the computer (68%), the internet (49%), and software (38%) after taking a computer class. One respondent commented: "Probably the most valuable resource, dollar for dollar, available to community. I have found jobs…researched…located tax information, and have done school work over the years. Thank you!!"
Report Infographic
Through a $3.3 million, two year project that began in spring 2011, the Colorado State Library is overseeing the installation of 88 new and enhanced Public Computer Centers (PCCs) throughout Colorado. These PCCs provide internet access and computer training to foster broadband adoption. In 2012, LRS surveyed more than 7,300 PCC users to determine the impacts the PCCs are having on their lives. The results showed that the top outcomes of respondents who used the PCCs during open lab times were to communication with someone (52%), look for employment (38%), and use the printer, scanner, or fax (33%). Top outcomes of computer class attendees included getting better at using the computer (68%), the internet (49%), and software (38%) after taking a computer class. One respondent commented: "Probably the most valuable resource, dollar for dollar, available to community. I have found jobs…researched…located tax information, and have done school work over the years. Thank you!!"
Report Infographic
What is the Value of an MLIS to You?
In spring 2011, LRS conducted the 60-second survey "The Value of an MLIS to You." Almost 2,500 people responded to this survey. More than three-fourths (79%) agreed that the degree was worth the time and money invested, and 63% would recommended pursuing the degree if asked today. In addition to presenting the survey results, the report also contains an in-depth analysis of the additional comments that were left by about 1,300 respondents. A Fast Facts containing highlights of the study's results is also available: Report FastFacts
2011 AskColorado and AskAcademic Evaluation
By Chelsea Jordan-Makely, Julie Teglovic, and Linda Hofschire
LRS conducted an evaluation of the statewide 24/7 virtual reference service AskColorado, as well as its academic queue AskAcademic, between April and October 2011. Based on the results of nearly 1,300 user surveys, respondents are pleased with these services and are likely to be repeat users. Four out of five users (80%) rated AskColorado librarians as "very helpful" or "helpful," and six out of seven users (85%) said that they would be "very likely" or "likely" to use the service again. Satisfaction was even higher among AskAcademic users. Nearly 9 in 10 AskAcademic survey respondents (89%) indicated that the librarians who assisted them were either very helpful or helpful , and most (94%) said that they were "very likely" or "likely" to utilize the service again. Compared with previous AskColorado evaluations, in 2011 the service received its highest ratings yet on these measures. A Fast Facts http://www.lrs.org/documents/fastfacts/305_2011AskCOAskAcademicEvaluation.pdf containing highlights of these results is also available.
Report
LRS conducted an evaluation of the statewide 24/7 virtual reference service AskColorado, as well as its academic queue AskAcademic, between April and October 2011. Based on the results of nearly 1,300 user surveys, respondents are pleased with these services and are likely to be repeat users. Four out of five users (80%) rated AskColorado librarians as "very helpful" or "helpful," and six out of seven users (85%) said that they would be "very likely" or "likely" to use the service again. Satisfaction was even higher among AskAcademic users. Nearly 9 in 10 AskAcademic survey respondents (89%) indicated that the librarians who assisted them were either very helpful or helpful , and most (94%) said that they were "very likely" or "likely" to utilize the service again. Compared with previous AskColorado evaluations, in 2011 the service received its highest ratings yet on these measures. A Fast Facts http://www.lrs.org/documents/fastfacts/305_2011AskCOAskAcademicEvaluation.pdf containing highlights of these results is also available.
Report
Change in School Librarian Staffing Linked with Change in CSAP Reading Performance, 2005 to 2011
By Keith Curry Lance and Linda Hofschire – January 2012
In fall 2011, LRS analyzed school library staffing data and Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) reading scores over time. The findings indicated that schools that either maintained or gained an endorsed librarian between 2005 and 2011 tended to have more students scoring advanced in reading in 2011 and fewer students scoring unsatisfactory, compared with schools that either lost their librarians or never had one. In 2011, schools with at least one FTE endorsed librarian averaged significantly higher advanced CSAP reading scores and significantly lower unsatisfactory scores than schools with less than one FTE endorsed librarian. These findings remained significant when controlling for poverty.
Report
In fall 2011, LRS analyzed school library staffing data and Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) reading scores over time. The findings indicated that schools that either maintained or gained an endorsed librarian between 2005 and 2011 tended to have more students scoring advanced in reading in 2011 and fewer students scoring unsatisfactory, compared with schools that either lost their librarians or never had one. In 2011, schools with at least one FTE endorsed librarian averaged significantly higher advanced CSAP reading scores and significantly lower unsatisfactory scores than schools with less than one FTE endorsed librarian. These findings remained significant when controlling for poverty.
Report
Colorado Talking Book Library Patron Satisfaction Survey Report, 2010
By Lisa Boyd and Julie Teglovic – June 2011
The Colorado Talking Book Library (CTBL) provides free library services to Coloradans of all ages who are unable to read standard print materials due to physical, visual, or learning disabilities. As part of an ongoing effort by CTBL to evaluate its services, the Library Research Service developed a patron survey in summer 2010 which was administered in October of the same year. The survey was designed to help CTBL identify possible strengths and weaknesses and to plan for future services.
Report
The Colorado Talking Book Library (CTBL) provides free library services to Coloradans of all ages who are unable to read standard print materials due to physical, visual, or learning disabilities. As part of an ongoing effort by CTBL to evaluate its services, the Library Research Service developed a patron survey in summer 2010 which was administered in October of the same year. The survey was designed to help CTBL identify possible strengths and weaknesses and to plan for future services.
Report
U.S. Public Libraries and the Use of Web Technologies, 2010
By Zeth Lietzau and Jamie Helgren – April 2011
In spring 2010, LRS undertook a second observational study to assess the prevalence of certain web technologies in Public Libraries in the United States.
Report Study Web Page
In spring 2010, LRS undertook a second observational study to assess the prevalence of certain web technologies in Public Libraries in the United States.
Report Study Web Page
The Impact of the Recession on Public Library Use in Colorado
By Keith Curry Lance, Linda Hofschire and Jamie Daisey – March 2011
In winter 2011, LRS conducted a study on the recession's impact on public library use. The findings indicated that in 2006 to 2007 (prior to the recession), use, as measured by visits, circulation, program attendance, and Internet use, remained relatively static or decreased in Colorado public libraries. In contrast, use increased by between 6% and 28% during the recession (2007 to 2009).
Report Study Web Page
In winter 2011, LRS conducted a study on the recession's impact on public library use. The findings indicated that in 2006 to 2007 (prior to the recession), use, as measured by visits, circulation, program attendance, and Internet use, remained relatively static or decreased in Colorado public libraries. In contrast, use increased by between 6% and 28% during the recession (2007 to 2009).
Report Study Web Page
School Librarians Continue to Help Students Achieve Standards: The Third Colorado Study (2010)
By Briana Hovendick Francis, Keith Curry Lance, and Zeth Lietzau
Known links between stronger school library programs and better Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) scores are confirmed by a recent examination of 2007-08 data on school libraries and 2008 data on students scoring proficient or advanced on CSAP reading. In addition, stronger library programs were also associated with reduced percentages of students receiving unsatisfactory CSAP scores, thereby helping to close the achievement gap.
Report
Known links between stronger school library programs and better Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) scores are confirmed by a recent examination of 2007-08 data on school libraries and 2008 data on students scoring proficient or advanced on CSAP reading. In addition, stronger library programs were also associated with reduced percentages of students receiving unsatisfactory CSAP scores, thereby helping to close the achievement gap.
Report
U.S. Public Libraries and the Use of Web Technologies
by Zeth Lietzau - October 2009
In spring 2008, LRS undertook an observational study to assess the prevalence of certain web technologies in Public Libraries in the United States.
Report Study Web Page
In spring 2008, LRS undertook an observational study to assess the prevalence of certain web technologies in Public Libraries in the United States.
Report Study Web Page
Public Libraries - A Wise Investment: A Return on Investment Study of Colorado Libraries
by Nicolle Steffen, Zeth Lietzau, Keith Curry Lance, Amanda Rybin, and Carla Molliconi - April 2009
In spring 2006, a need was identified in Colorado to describe the variety of benefits delivered by public libraries to their patrons and to quantify the return on investment to taxpayers for monies invested in public libraries. Libraries studied include Cortez Public Library, Denver Public Library, Douglas County Libraries, Eagle Valley Library District, Fort Morgan Public Library, Mesa County Public Library District, Montrose Library District, and Rangeview Library District.
Report ROI Study Web Page
In spring 2006, a need was identified in Colorado to describe the variety of benefits delivered by public libraries to their patrons and to quantify the return on investment to taxpayers for monies invested in public libraries. Libraries studied include Cortez Public Library, Denver Public Library, Douglas County Libraries, Eagle Valley Library District, Fort Morgan Public Library, Mesa County Public Library District, Montrose Library District, and Rangeview Library District.
Report ROI Study Web Page
Early Literacy Programs and Practices at Colorado Public Libraries
by Robbie Bravman Marks - October 2006
In efforts to help young children aged birth through six prepare to read, public libraries across the nation are stepping to the fore with new or enhanced early literacy programs and services.
Report
In efforts to help young children aged birth through six prepare to read, public libraries across the nation are stepping to the fore with new or enhanced early literacy programs and services.
Report
How Academic Libraries Help Faculty Teach and Students Learn
by Don Dickenson - February 2006
The Colorado Academic Library Impact Study - From March to May 2005, a study concerning academic library usage and outcomes was conducted by the Library Research Service in association with the Colorado Academic Library Consortium.
Report
The Colorado Academic Library Impact Study - From March to May 2005, a study concerning academic library usage and outcomes was conducted by the Library Research Service in association with the Colorado Academic Library Consortium.
Report
Retirement, Retention, and Recruitment: The Future of Librarianship in Colorado
by Nicolle Steffen, Keith Curry Lance, Becky Russell, and Zeth Lietzau - September 2004
During the last quarter of 2003, 1,241 Colorado librarians and other library workers responded to a voluntary statewide survey asking them about retirement, retention, and recruitment issues.
Report
During the last quarter of 2003, 1,241 Colorado librarians and other library workers responded to a voluntary statewide survey asking them about retirement, retention, and recruitment issues.
Report
Colorado's @ your library Campaign Evaluation
by Becky Russell - July 2004
This report evaluates the second two components of the Colorado @ your library Campaign project that are in process and scheduled for completion in October 2004 (funded by a LSTA 2003-2004 grant).
Report
This report evaluates the second two components of the Colorado @ your library Campaign project that are in process and scheduled for completion in October 2004 (funded by a LSTA 2003-2004 grant).
Report
Intellectual Freedom Issues in Colorado Libraries: Concerns, Challenges, Resources, and Opinions
by Nicolle Steffen and Martin Garnar - April 2004
In the fall of 2003, the CAL Intellectual Freedom Committee sponsored a survey to take the pulse of intellectual freedom in Colorado. The goal was to ask a wide range of Colorado library workers about their awareness and personal involvement in intellectual freedom issues, ranging from book challenges and Internet filtering to their opinions on recent federal legislation impacting libraries.
Report
In the fall of 2003, the CAL Intellectual Freedom Committee sponsored a survey to take the pulse of intellectual freedom in Colorado. The goal was to ask a wide range of Colorado library workers about their awareness and personal involvement in intellectual freedom issues, ranging from book challenges and Internet filtering to their opinions on recent federal legislation impacting libraries.
Report
Budget Cuts and Their Impact on Library Services to Coloradans
by Zeth Lietzau - January 2004
Commissioned by the Strategic Issues and Emergency Response (SIER) Committee of the Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL), this report details the extent of recent budget cuts to Colorado libraries.
Report
Commissioned by the Strategic Issues and Emergency Response (SIER) Committee of the Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL), this report details the extent of recent budget cuts to Colorado libraries.
Report
Adult and Family Literacy Activities in Colorado Public Libraries
by Becky Russell - November 2003
Commissioned by the Colorado Department of Education´s (CDE) Center for At-Risk Education (CARE) and in conjunction with the Colorado Literacy Research Initiative, this study examines adult and family literacy activities taking place in Colorado's public libraries.
Report
Commissioned by the Colorado Department of Education´s (CDE) Center for At-Risk Education (CARE) and in conjunction with the Colorado Literacy Research Initiative, this study examines adult and family literacy activities taking place in Colorado's public libraries.
Report
Colorado Courier Cost Comparison Study
by Becky Russell - April 2003
The Central Colorado Library System (CCLS) commissioned the Library Research Service to study how economical the Colorado Courier service is for libraries that use it.
Report
The Central Colorado Library System (CCLS) commissioned the Library Research Service to study how economical the Colorado Courier service is for libraries that use it.
Report
Counting on Results: New Tools for Outcome-Based Evaluation of Public Libraries
by Keith Curry Lance, Nicolle O. Steffen, Rochelle Logan, Marcia J. Rodney, and
Suzanne Kaller
The Counting on Results (CoR) study was a nationwide examination of the impact of public library services on individual patrons. Volunteer libraries throughout the United States participated in the project.
Report More information
The Counting on Results (CoR) study was a nationwide examination of the impact of public library services on individual patrons. Volunteer libraries throughout the United States participated in the project.
Report More information
Colorado Public Libraries and the Digital Divide
by Tammi Moe and Keith Curry Lance - October 2002
This report analyzes data from an April 2002 survey of public library Internet users conducted by the Library Research Service. It provides insights into how Coloradans are aided by public libraries in using information technology and how their lives are changed by access to online information.
Editorial Note Report Public Libraries article table 1 fig. 1 fig. 2 fig. 3 fig. 4
This report analyzes data from an April 2002 survey of public library Internet users conducted by the Library Research Service. It provides insights into how Coloradans are aided by public libraries in using information technology and how their lives are changed by access to online information.
Editorial Note Report Public Libraries article table 1 fig. 1 fig. 2 fig. 3 fig. 4