Libraries Matter to Americans, According to Pew

The top three library services among Americans 16 and older who have used the library are: Books and Media, having a quiet, safe place, and librarian assistance.  90% of people surveyed thought that closing the library would have an impact on the community, according to a new study from the Pew Research Center. This study, “How Americans Value Public Libraries in Their Communitites,” released today offers this information and more on Americans’ views on the public library.  Over 6000 people over the age of 16 answered a 35 question survey about libraries to provide the data for the report.  A number of reports on public libraries, reading, and the use of information are available from Pew.