Libraries: A Great Local Government Resource in Tough Economic Times

What’s the best value for the money in times of economic trouble? The local library!

During the current financial crisis, everything seems down. But the use of libraries is way up, as people turn to this great local government resource for help in these troubled times. With the nation in recession, Americans are visiting their local public libraries more often and checking out items with greater frequency. Libraries across the United States report that more people are turning to libraries in record numbers to take advantage of the free resources available there.

At Lancaster’s Schreiner Memorial Library, circulation was up 14% last year and 64% over the past three years. Computer use increased 24% last year and 47% over the past three years. Nation-wide, an all-time high 68% of Americans own a library card. Seventy-five (75%)of these card owners reported using their library during the past year. In Lancaster, where we keep our record of card holders more current than most libraries, 56% of local residents have library cards. In addition we have 1,842 nonresident card holders.

Libraries big and small across the country are seeing these double-digit increases as people need:

• Free Internet

• Help accessing government services (at all levels)

• Searching and applying for jobs (many applications are now only online)

• Learning new skills • Resources for a small business

• Entertainment for the whole family (books, DVDs, CDs, storytimes, gaming, and movie nights).

• Information on Filing your tax return (computers to allow you to complete and file a federal return for free)

• Resources for dealing with stress, change, and life’s difficult times

No longer institutions devoted solely to book circulation, today’s libraries provide citizens and businesses with Internet connectivity, career development, childhood literacy, and other important services. Libraries provide a high return on investment to local communities. Multiple studies show that for every $1 invested, libraries provide an economic boost of around $5 and are a part of local government’s vital role in the nation’s economic recovery.

For more information about your local library, visit the Schreiner Memorial Library Website  To learn more about the City of Lancaster, visit www.lancasterwisconsin.com

 To learn more about the American Library Association, visit www.ala.org