Another public library performance measure that has seen significant growth in the past five years is the number of programs hosted by Nebraska libraries. From fiscal year 2008 through 2012, the number of programs increased by 21.6%. No one was speaking to an empty room, either, as attendance at these events grew by 22.8%.
This increase was undoubtedly influenced during the past two years by training sessions made possible by the
Library Broadband Builds Nebraska Communities grant, but the trend was already established by the time the grant was awarded. This movement towards expanding the role of the library as a critical local service provider has certainly solidified the belief that public libraries should be recognized as
community anchor institutions (CAI) along with schools, healthcare providers, government facilities, and other community support organizations.
Source: Nebraska Public Libraries Survey FY 2008 – FY 2012 
