What’s measured The study looks at public library print holdings and print serial subscriptions and does not include electronic documents. The Library Research Center is the source for the data, through the Public Library Survey by the National Center for Education Statistics. Per capita numbers were calculated using the U.S. Census Bureau’s annual population estimates. Anson County is not included because it is a member of the Sandhill Regional Library System, which covers five counties. Lincoln and Gaston counties are reported together because they have a combined Gaston-Lincoln Regional Library. Per capita numbers use the combined population of Gaston and Lincoln counties. Why it’s measured The number of public library print holdings serves as a measure of library service. Using per capita numbers allows observers to see if libraries are expanding to keep pace with population increases. Focusing on print holdings and excluding electronic resources was intentional. It was an effort to highlight the importance of printed materials, given that exposure to printed materials is waning as electronic media gain in popularity. Indicator results The Charlotte region’s public libraries maintained an average of 1.8 holdings per capita in 2003 and 2004, following a slight drop from 1.9 holdings per capita in 2002. Most counties have increased total print holdings, but population increases in the region have kept the per capita number consistent. The Charlotte region lags behind the state per capita numbers of 1.9 holdings in North Carolina and 2.1 holdings in South Carolina. Per capita holdings by county ranged from a high of 2.7 in Chester County to a low of 1.3 in Union County. Evaluation With its print holdings, the Charlotte region is keeping pace with population increases. Maintaining this service has become increasingly difficult not only with population increases but with the growth of electronic media as well. From a cultural and civic standpoint, libraries need to maintain this level of service so that residents continue to have access to literature, arts, reference works and periodicals. Although the amount and breadth of content of electronic media are ever increasing, the printed word remains one of the most influential artistic and cultural outlets. Connections Public library print holdings have broad implications — from access to information to the appreciation of past, present and future printed material. Public libraries provide much of the population with access to information that they would otherwise be unable to obtain, particularly material in print form. The significance of written material is sometimes lost in an electronic age, underscoring the importance of maintaining a collection of printed material that is accessible to the region. |