FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IMLS Press Contact
Giuliana Bullard
202-653-4799
gbullard@imls.gov

IMLS Releases Annual Data on American Public Libraries

Washington, D.C.—The Institute of Museum and Library Services today released the latest data from its 2016 Public Libraries Survey. The Public Libraries Survey examines key indicators of public library use, financial health, staffing, and resources. Explore the FY 2016 data and supplementary tables.

Each year since 1988, the survey has provided a national census of America’s public libraries. The data are collected from approximately 9,000 public library systems comprised of over 17,000 individual main libraries, library branches, and bookmobiles in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories.

"Ensuring that public libraries and the organizations that work with them have access to comprehensive, in-depth data that can be compared over the years is a key part of how IMLS supports the capacity of the field to meet the needs of their communities," said Benjamin Sweezy, IMLS Deputy Director of Digital and Information Strategy.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.