Current, accurate and ongoing collection of library data is an essential foundation for quality library services in the United States. Your efforts for effectively managing your library can be supplemented by comparing data collected at your library to that of others in the state or nationally. The Missouri State Library annually collects data from the state’s public libraries that receive State Aid, and from any other libraries interested in participating in the data collection. The Missouri data are then aggregated and published by IMLS with state summary data on public libraries in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

In this section of our site you will find links to the published state and national public library statistical reports, as well as the tools provided by IMLS to compare public libraries using the most current published data. Additionally, during Missouri's annual data collection cycle (October through December), you will find a link to the public library survey Web site here and a blank copy of the survey.

Question pertaining to Missouri public library statistics can be sent to Katina Jones, Statistical Research Analyst for the Missouri State Library or posted on the Discussions tab.