Data and Evaluation

For North Carolina Libraries

computer on table showing different charts

Quick Facts About NC Public Libraries

393

Library Locations

5

Million Card Holders

55

Million Items Loaned

3,310

Full-time Equivalent Jobs Created

Explore infographics highlighting library data and find downloadable templates

Public Library Statistics

Find and Report Data

The FY24 submission period will begin on 7/15/2024 and close on 9/16/2024. NC public libraries have access to individual library data, statewide and federal data via the reporting module in LibPAS. Login required.

NC Annual Statistical Report

Annual report data including income, expenditures, staffing, collections, and usage.

Search and Compare Libraries

Find peer libraries across the US using this tool from the Institute of museum and Library Services.

IMLS Data Catalog

Access data sets from IMLS's various data collections including reports and analysis.

Resources for finding Community Data

Evaluation Training Resources

Join the Data Users' Group

Join the listserv to connect with others interested in evaluation and get alerts about data releases, trainings, and other updates.

ALA's Data Pathways

The American Library Association's Data Pathways is designed to help develop evaluation and data literacy skills in library staff of all levels.

SLNC Academy

Find free, self-paced training on topics related to evaluation and data in the Assessment Academy. Available only to North Carolina Library staff.

Count your Impact

Evaluation training module developed to introduce library staff to outcome-based assessment.

Evaluation Tools

Project Outcome

Project Outcome is a FREE online toolkit designed to help public libraries understand and share the impact of essential library programs and services by providing simple surveys and an easy-to-use process for measuring and analyzing outcomes.

Edge Initiative ($)

The Edge Initiative is a toolkit to help libraries assess their public access technology infrastructure and services against nationally recognized benchmarks. The toolkit includes an assessment, recommendations and planning tools, resources to help implement changes, training and communication tool.

Library Research Service How-Tos

Find general information on survey creation and administration as well as template surveys.

Benchmark from PLA

Benchmark provides access to IMLS, Census, PLDS and PLA library data in one place. View data by per-determined peer groups or create your own custom report and comparisons.

For more information:

Questions or comments can be directed to Amanda Johnson. Custom reports, analysis and consulting services may be available upon request including:

  • survey design
  • finding data about your library or other libraries
  • creating data-informed advocacy materials
  • consulting on evaluation/assessment planning
  • providing feedback on the evaluation portion of LSTA grants