National Data Sources for Public Libraries
This section highlights national data sources that can support library planning, benchmarking, and advocacy. Many are free, while some require subscriptions.
IMLS provides free datasets, reports, and tools on public libraries and state library agencies. Annual data from public libraries and biannual data from state agencies help policymakers and practitioners make informed decisions. RIPL’s 2024 user guide offers step-by-step guidance for the Search & Compare tool.
Tip: Use IMLS to Benchmark Your Library
– Compare circulation, staffing, programs, and budgets to national averages
– Track trends over time
– Support funding requests with credible, standardized data
PLA’s Benchmark Tool provides interactive visualizations for library services, staff, and technology, combining survey data, historic PLDS data, IMLS Public Libraries Survey, and Census data. The data dashboards and comparison tools are robust, interactive, and user-friendly.
Library Metrics and Trends provides libraries with data visualizations that allow them to compare their inputs and outputs to peer and nationwide data. This tool requires a subscription.
Tip: When to Use PLA Benchmarks
– Compare circulation, staffing, programs, and budgets to national averages
– Track trends over time
– Support funding requests with credible, standardized data
The Library Insights Survey (LIS) collects information from Urban Libraries Council member libraries on their budgets, staffing, operations, visitors and programs to help strengthen and advance the essential role of public libraries in our cities. Reports and toolkits are available for free. The members-only Data Hive consists of data collected from member libraries, as well as publicly available demographic information.
Tip: When to Use
Use this source if your library serves a city context, or to benchmark urban library trends.
The U. S. Census Bureau provides free datasets and tools to help public libraries with planning, decision making, and community development.
Key resources include:
- Data Profiles and data.census.gov – tables & maps
- Census Business Builder – business-focused community data
- On the Map – workforce location analysis
- PLA’s Census Data Literacy series – free on-demand training for libraries
- After the Census offers examples of using census data in your library, from American Libraries magazine
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) publishes many student data groups in the Common Core of Data (CCD) which provides tools, datasets, and publications. NCES ACS-ED Maps extend analysis via mapping to the American Community Survey data universe. This tool is useful for libraries working with youth services, school partnerships, or local education planning.
The Kids Count Data Center provides evidence-based, non-partisan data and trend analysis on children and families tracking trends at the local, state, and national levels. This is useful for librarians focusing on youth programming and advocacy.
Data USA is a repository of public data grouped into five categories: Locations, Industries, Occupations, Degrees, Universities, and Products & Services. Data USA is sponsored by for-profit, private companies.
Tip: Know Your Source
Data from private institutions can be useful, but it may be influenced by business goals or organizational priorities. Check who produced the data, how it was collected, and whether anything important might be left out.