5 Values A Local Library Brings To Communities via ABC10

5 values a local library brings to communities

The modern library has become far more than a center for books and reading.

ABC10: 7.23.2018 by Eric Escalante

The modern library has become far more than a center for books and reading. Although these elements may remain the archetype of the library for years to come, the modern library has nonetheless taken strides to adapt to the 21st century needs of their communities.

Sacramento’s libraries provide a wide array of resources and technology to the community, and even smaller libraries such as those in Stanislaus County are adapting to the needs of their community as they attempt to re-envision their local libraries with more meeting spaces and seating.

The modern library can be critical to an educated workforce and to a fulfilled community.

1. The library offers a place for communities to gather

The traditional view of the library is one where the walls and aisles are covered with books, literature, and people reading or studying in silence. However, while this can still remain true today, the modern library is making efficient use of space. Libraries have the ability to provide a sense of place and to provide space itself for community members.

Areas like the Sacramento Public Library provides space for community meetings like book clubs, story time for toddlers, movie nights, writer’s club for teens, and other community gatherings.

The public library in Rancho Cordova even has a Veterans Resource Station where volunteers can connect vets to their benefits.

2. Libraries provide technology to the local community.

Electronic resources at libraries continue to expand as many modern libraries offer the use of computers, self-service kiosks, and free Wi-Fi.

3. Libraries help provide an educated workforce

In January, the California State Librarian responded to the more than $9.5 million investment in libraries from Governor Jerry Brown.

4. Millennials and other generations still see value in the library

According to the Pew Research Center, millennials are more likely to have visited a public library in the past year than other adult generations.

53 percent of Millennials said they had been to a library or bookmobile in the past 12 months, according to the 2017 analysis.

5. The cost to taxpayers for some libraries can be as low as $1.38 per month Libraries are not entirely free. Local communities pay for these services through their tax dollars.  READ MORE >>

Library / Literacy Funding

2018

From Awareness to Funding: Voter Perceptions and Support of Public Libraries in 2018, OCLC

2017
Library & Literacy Funding Chart: FY 2017 -by President, House, and Senate, ALA (excel file)

2011
Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study, ALA
2008
From Awareness to Funding: A Study of Library Support in America, OCLC
2007
Worth Their Weight: Assessment . . . Library Valuation, Americans for Libraries Council
Return On Investment - ROI
Economic Impact of Public Libraries (various ROIs), WI Dept Public Instruction

Libraries Matter: Impact Research: Bibliography, ALA

Public Libraries – A Wise Investment - Library Research Service