Booksology This study provides the first comprehensive survey of the nation’s libraries. There are more than 17,000 public libraries in the United States, which receive more than 800 million visitors annually.
Approximately 6,000 libraries in the United States (approximately 40%) reported that one of their building systems was in poor condition. These systems may include heating, ventilation, or air conditioning. GAO found that 61% of U.S. libraries have at least one building system or feature that poses a potential health or safety concern. Library officials noted that these concerns often stem from a library’s size and accessibility. Smaller libraries need to make the most of their space, which can lead to blocked aisles and crowding.
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“Every community needs a great public library,” said Sam Helmick, ALA president and president of the American Library Association. “Unfortunately, in many parts of America today, local public library buildings do not meet the needs of their communities.”
Additionally, 7,000 libraries report that their buildings have physical barriers that prevent access for people with disabilities.
Maintenance costs are cited as the biggest barrier to addressing these challenges, with 71% of libraries noting that staffing and materials costs exceed the budget available for restoration. This explains why 70% of public libraries, or 11,200, are reporting deferred maintenance and repairs. This number will not improve either. These libraries plan to postpone these repairs for at least three years, and 39% of those libraries report outstanding balances exceeding $100,000.
Because public libraries rely on local funding, it can be difficult to secure the funds needed to cover costs. This is especially true for small, local libraries, but it’s made even more difficult in a time of funding cuts and widespread attacks on public libraries. Public libraries also cannot use funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to cover building construction or repair costs.
“During emergencies, entire communities, including federal first responders, rely on public library space to provide computers, reliable internet connectivity, access to food, water, shelter, and even disaster relief funds. As community anchors, library buildings themselves must withstand the emergencies our communities face,” Helmick said. “Investments in library facilities should be commensurate with the central role libraries play in learning, connection, and opportunity for so many people.”
GAO’s study included 16,400 public libraries in all 50 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia. The study also included field visits to 21 public libraries and two tribal libraries in seven different states.
You can read the full report here.
