California Public Library Statistics
The State Library annually collects California Library Statistics, a compilation of statistical data from public libraries throughout the state.
The State Library also produces an annual report of the population served by each California public library, titled Persons Served by California Public Libraries, according to the provisions of Education Code Section 18021.
Most Recent Statistics (FY 2018–19 data)
Staffing & Facilities
jurisdictions
libraries
staff
volunteer FTE per week
Collections & Circulation
total collection items (physical and digital)
total collection use
$, total collection expenditures
physical item circulation
children's books held
young adult books held
interlibrary loans made
interlibrary loans received
Public use
library visits
reference transactions
adult programs
young adult programs
children's programs
total program attendance
annual uses of public internet computers
virtual visits to library websites
Full Statistics
Full California Library Statistics are found on the California Library Statistics Portal.
To access reports for your own library's statistics, including infographics and other handouts, visit your LibPAS account at https://ca.countingopinions.com/. Login and passwords are held by library directors and other account holders in your library. Questions? Contact Meg DePriest.
Resources for Completing the Public Library Survey
California's 2019–2020 Public Library Survey will open for data input from September 7 to November 6, 2020.
- 19/20 Public Library Survey Instructions (Word)
- 19/20 Blank Survey Form (Excel)
- Counting Electronic Items Flowchart
- Recording of PLS 2019–20 Information Session conducted August 19, 2020
If you would like copies of the PowerPoint slides from this webinar, email Meg DePriest.
Online Training Opportunities for California Public Library Staff
Learn about how to access and use your library’s data to meet the needs and aspirations of your community.
Archived Webinars
- Basic Guide to the California Public Library Survey: Accessing data and generating simple reports
- Census 2020: Libraries Engaging Communities
- Edge 2.0 for Small/Rural Libraries
- Eliminating Fines: A win-win for your library and community
- Harnessing Library Data: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and eBook Usage
- The Power of California Public Library Survey Data: Running comparisons, trend reports, and more
- Using Data for Decision Making
Upcoming Webinars
Check back for registration links for future events
Questions about the California Public Library Survey or upcoming training opportunities? Contact Meg DePriest, State Data Coordinator & Library Programs Consultant