The Urban Libraries Council this week released its second annual “Library Insights” survey of member libraries, which offered a fairly positive “data-informed view” of “post-pandemic performance for urban public libraries across the U.S. and Canada.” The survey captured a range of trends in patron engagement from 115 ULC member libraries, "representing nearly 2,300 locations and serving over 87.5 million people” for 2023.
In a release, ULC reps pointed out the following trends:
In-person visits are rising: The most recent survey data shows that ULC libraries recorded a 24% average increase in visits in 2023, a trend expected to continue in 2024. Notably, the average number of room reservations for all libraries surveyed increased by 52%, surpassing pre-pandemic 2019 levels by 18%.
Digital use is up: Respondents also reported an 11% increase in the average number of digital resources accessed between 2022 and 2023, a 40% increase compared to 2019.
Library staffing is bouncing back: Overall, after a decline in 2022, the recent survey data showed a slight increase (3%) in FTE staffing levels in 2023, returning the total FTE staffing numbers closer to pre-pandemic levels.
“This year’s data demonstrates a continued strong rebound with impressive growth in overall library usage and an unmistakable shift in how patrons use and regard the library as a vital third place,” said Brooks Rainwater, President and CEO of the Urban Libraries Council, in a statement. “Increasing visits, higher program attendance and demand for spaces like meeting and study rooms underscore the library’s value as a flexible, inclusive community space.”
At the same time, the report acknowledges significant challenges that remain for libraries in the aftermath of the pandemic, noting in a conclusion that that in-person visits are still averaging 35% below pre-pandemic levels, as well as declining physical circulation and computer usage.
"The 69% drop in computer usage since 2022 underscores the need for libraries to reimagine their technological offerings to align with current trends,” the report states. “At the same time, physical circulation remains very strongly and significantly correlated with all major user trends including in-person visits, attendance to programs, and e-Resource usage, signaling the continued importance of physical collections.”
In addition, an alarming rise in total "incident" reports, which were 29% higher in 2023 than in 2022, highlights “challenges in ensuring safe and welcoming environments,” and is prompting “increased investments” in security.
“By leveraging the findings of this report, library leaders can make informed decisions that bolster their institutions' impact,” the report concludes. “Together, we can ensure that libraries not only recover but thrive as vibrant spaces of opportunity and inclusivity for all.”
The full report is available here.
