Why Is This Important?
Public libraries are gateways to information, providing members of a community access to the internet, reference tools, and a variety of published materials. Libraries are important institutions for promoting social equity as they do not discriminate, but rather provide equal access to all members of society. For some, libraries are the only place they can access the internet or reading material. Libraries’ reference tools can be extremely helpful to students and the business community. Community rooms, children’s programs, and special literacy programs are offered by most libraries, helping foster an environment of unity and learning.
What Is a Sustainable State?
A sustainable state is one where all members of society have access to public libraries.
How Are We Doing?
The level of library expenditures indicates a community’s support for its libraries. In 2005-06, annual expenditures per capita for all public libraries in San Mateo County continued to increase, reaching $57.67. By comparison, annual expenditures per capita for neighboring Santa Clara County libraries was $45.60 and the statewide average was $29.39. After removing the effects of inflation, per capita expenditures in the county have increased 16 percent since 1996-97.
Other findings from 2005-06 included:
- Although 7 percent higher than a decade ago, the total number of hours public libraries in the county were open decreased by 1 percent from 2004-05.
- The total number of library card holders for county libraries was 15 percent higher than it was in 2001-02.
- Average countywide circulation per capita, which did not change from 2004-05, was 9.8 materials borrowed. Statewide circulation per capita was 5.4 materials borrowed.
- The number of internet terminals in county libraries was 0.8 per 1,000 residents, comparing favorably to the statewide average of 0.4 per 1,000 residents. The total number of internet terminals in county libraries increased by 26 percent from 2004-05.
- The number of reference questions asked continues to decline in county libraries, likely because of an increase in the use of the internet for reference purposes and the increasing number of internet terminals. In 2005-06, there were 10 percent fewer reference questions per capita than 1996-97.
Data source: California State Library, Library Development Services Bureau
Data source: California State Library, Library Development Services Bureau
See appendix page 77, CLICK HERE. Researchers: Nicholas Piccinini and Kirsten Winkelbauer