Pew study “Libraries and Society” illustrates critical roles of U.S. libraries
An overwhelming majority of Americans acknowledge that public libraries offer more than just books and provide community-tailored programs and services that improve the quality of life, according to “Libraries and Society,” a report released recently from the Pew Research Center that examines the role of public libraries in communities.
“I am proud that libraries have earned enormous trust and satisfaction from the American public,” said American Library Association (ALA) President Barbara Stripling. “But we also know that one-third of all Americans still lack home Internet access, and a recent global survey finds U.S. adults lag behind many of their counterparts overseas in basic education skills. Our work is not done, and libraries will continue to innovate and meet evolving needs as new technologies and applications emerge. Libraries are transforming lives through education and help level the playing field for all.”
The report found that 95 percent of Americans agree that libraries play an important role in giving everyone a chance to succeed. At a time when more and more information is moving online and into digital formats, people continue to highly value free access to books and media, assistance from librarians, a safe and welcoming public space, and a range of resources, workshops, classes and events. Calvert Library is currently running their biennial customer survey. Director Carrie Plymire said, “We look forward to hearing specific feedback to be sure we are meeting the needs of the community and to using that data to plan our future course.”
From 2011 to 2012, public demand for digital training and technology classes increased 36 percent, while the demand for public Internet-connected computers went up 60 percent. The Pew study found that 72 percent of all Americans adults have either used a public library in the past year or live in a household with a family member who is an active library user.
“The future of libraries is both online and in person—high tech and high touch,” says Stripling. “From children’s storytimes to makerspaces to mobile applications and augmented reality, libraries mix traditional and new services to meet changing community needs. If you haven’t visited your library lately, I invite you to stop by or log on and let us surprise you.” A library visit would be a great way to celebrate National Library Week, April 14-19, and you can complete a Calvert Library survey while you are there.
Visit http://www.pewInternet.org/topics/Libraries.aspx to learn more about the Pew study and the American Libraries magazine’s E-Content blog for up-to-date news on libraries and digital content. Visit http://calvert.lib.md.us to access the Calvert Library survey. Call Robyn Truslow, Public Relations Coordinator at 410-535-0291 for more information.
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Robyn Truslow
Public Relations Coordinator
Calvert Library
850 Costley Way
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
410-535-0291
410-535-3022 (fax)
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