Trends/Statistics: ALA Releases “State of America’s Libraries 2019” Report

NOTE: Included in State of America’s Libraries Report 2019 is the list of the Top 11 Most Challenged Books of 2018. The complete list and additional resources (infographics and video) can be found here.

From the American Library Association:

The American Library Association (ALA) [has] released its State of America’s Libraries 2019 report, an annual summary of library trends released during National Library Week, April 7 – 13, that outlines statistics and issues affecting all types of libraries. Never have our nation’s libraries played such a pivotal role in strengthening communities through education and lifelong learning.

Libraries are a microcosm of the larger society. They play an important and unique role in the communities that they serve and provide an inclusive environment where all are treated with respect and dignity.

No longer just places for books, our public libraries serve as a lifeline for some of our nation’s most vulnerable communities. From community-wide issues as illiteracy, homelessness and community silos, our nation’s public libraries are acting as catalysts in fostering community-wide solutions that strengthen communities.

The report found that library workers are on the frontlines addressing community challenges. Many serve as first responders who take on roles outside of traditional library service that support patrons’ needs and community development. Functioning at various times as career counselor, social worker, teacher and technology instructor, library staff give special care to adopt programs and services that support our most vulnerable and curious.

Additional findings illustrate library workers’ efforts to safeguard library collections and the freedom to read. In 2018 hundreds of attempts to remove materials or eliminate programs took place in public, school and academic libraries. Many of these library materials and services included or addressed LGBTQIA+ content.. 

Direct to Full Text Report (HTML Version)

Direct to Full Text Report (PDF Version; 30 pages)

Direct to FlipBook Version

Direct to Previously Released Versions of the Report

Filed under: Academic Libraries, Associations and Organizations, Libraries, National Libraries, News, Public Libraries