Libraries are Busier Than Ever

We’re asking you to Speak Up for Your Library because libraries are busier than ever and deserve everyone’s support:

Libraries are dynamic information environments that bear little resemblance to what many of us remember as children. Libraries are also busier than ever, contrary to what many people believe.

Total circulation in all Indianhead Federated Library System (IFLS) libraries was over 5.4 million in 2009, up from about 5.3 million in 2008. That’s an increase of nearly 3 percent, and that’s on top of continual growth over the past 10 years. Statewide, more than 65 million items were circulated by Wisconsin’s public libraries in 2009. Wisconsin ranks 8th per capita in circulation nationally – but just 24th in per capita public library collection expenditures!

In 2009 there were over 2.5 million library visits at all IFLS member libraries, compared to just under 2.4 million in 2008. That’s an increase of nearly 8 percent. Library users made over 35.5 million visits to Wisconsin public libraries in 2009 - more people than attended home games for Brewers, Packers, Bucks and Badger sports games, combined!

Though libraries are busier than ever, continuing an upward trend that began more than 10 years ago, staffing and funding levels are relatively flat. Over the past 5 years, public library visits have increased by more than 10 percent and circulation increased by more than 15 percent, yet staffing has increased less than 1 percent! Libraries have done more with less for years, but given recent trends in circulation and library visits it’s not a scenario that can continue.

Libraries are a great investment in our local communities, but the quality of their future is in doubt. You can make a difference if you become involved and speak up for your library!
To do this week: Write a letter to our U.S. Senators (and candidates) and U.S. Representatives (and candidates) and voice your support for library funding at the national level.