Public Libraries

Statistics

Colorado

  • Colorado Library Statistics. Dive into annual statistics on Colorado public libraries using our interactive tool, results tailored to library trustees, and state totals and averages.
  • Colorado Public Library Percentiles. Explore percentiles for key library statistics–including materials expenditures, circulation, and turnover rates–and categorized by legal service area.

Other

  • Other States’ Library Statistics. Access public library statistics for states other than Colorado through these resources. Most are available on the website of each state library.
  • National Library Statistics. Want to see the national picture in public library statistics? Check out these individual library and aggregated state and national data sets from IMLS.
  • National Public Library Percentiles. Explore percentiles for key library statistics–including materials expenditures, circulation, and turnover rates–and categorized by legal service area.
  • Association Library Statistics. Explore data on Colorado public libraries from PLA Public Library Data Service Statistical Report, which offers service and technology comparisons.

Research

  • U.S. Public Libraries and the Use of Web Technologies. With this signature LRS biennial study, we assess the prevalence web technologies in U.S. public libraries. Review our 2008 and 2010 results here.
  • Return on Investment. This 2009 LRS study affirms the value of public libraries in a traditional business measure: return on investment. Most libraries had a ratio of about 5:1!
  • Counting on Results. Investigate results from libraries that participated in Counting on Results, a nationwide study of the impact of public library services on individual patrons.

Resources

POPULAR RESOURCES

  • Public Library Statistics & Profiles
    Dive into annual statistics from the Colorado Public Library Annual Report using our interactive tool, results tailored to trustees, and state totals and averages.
  • School Library Impact Studies
    School libraries have a profound impact on student achievement. Explore studies about this topic by LRS and other researchers in our comprehensive guide.
  • Fast Fact Reports
    Looking for a quick rundown of library research? Check out our Fast Facts, which highlight research and statistics about various library topics.

ABOUT

LRS is part of the Colorado State Library, a unit of the Colorado Department of Education. We design and conduct library research for library and education professionals, public officials, and the media to inform practices and assessment needs.

This project is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Staff & Contact Info