For the third year in a row, Elmhurst Public Library received a national ranking in Library Journal’s annual review of public libraries. For the first time, the Library earned four out of five stars, up from the previous year’s three. This year, 7,570 public libraries were rated and only 262 qualified as star libraries.
Library Journal reviews public library data reported to the government—visits, circulation, program attendance, and public Internet terminal use per capita—and ranks the best performing libraries within budget categories. Elmhurst Public Library placed 17th nationwide and 6th in Illinois in the $5-9.9M category, with notably high visits and circulation per capita.
In an article published with the rankings, Library Journal explored how libraries have survived and thrived throughout the recession. For top libraries like Elmhurst Public Library, the two most long-established per capita measures—circulation and visits—rose dramatically compared with prerecession years. The best libraries have welcoming facilities with well-targeted programs, and collections with range and depth. Technology is an important factor affecting scores, although the underlying data report only use of public Internet computers and don’t include WiFi or laptop usage.
For the full article in Library Journal, visit http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2012/11/managing-libraries/lj-index/class-of-2012/americas-star-libraries-2012-top-rated-librarie
The Elmhurst Public Library strives to enrich life in Elmhurst by providing opportunities to explore, learn and grow. The Library provides the support and resources for Elmhurst residents to develop a love of reading; access information for work and learning; pursue interests that will enrich their lives; understand changes in technology, society and culture; and gather and interact with each other. Elmhurst Public Library is a place for discovery at the heart of the community.
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Elmhurst Public Library
125 S. Prospect Avenue
Elmhurst, IL 60126-3298
(630) 279-8696