The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) sponsor surveys about libraries.
The U.S. Census Bureau acts as the collection agent for these surveys, but the data themselves are available through the sponsoring agency.
The data provided to the IMLS and the NCES are used for a wide range of purposes including research, policy development, and legislative action.
IMLSsponsored surveys
State Library Agencies Survey
Collects data from the official state library agencies charged with state-wide library development and the administration of federal funds authorized by the Library Services and Technology Act.
NCESsponsored surveys
Sponsor | Survey Title | Frequency | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Institute of Museum and Library Services | Public Libraries Survey | Annual | Census of public libraries and their public service outlets |
State Library Agencies Survey | Annual | Census of official state library agencies | |
National Center for Education Statistics | Academic Libraries Survey | Biennial | Census of academic libraries in degree-granting postsecondary institutions |