Statistics
Under section 5 of the Library Act 1939 the Library Council of NSW makes careful inquiry into the administration and management of every local library in NSW. In support of this duty, the State Library collects comprehensive statistics from councils annually about their library services.
Key annual statistics are collected and used by public libraries for planning, developing and managing library services.
Summary statistics
These statistics can be used by libraries, councils, the media and other interested stakeholders for reports and articles.
There are 374 public libraries in NSW, 139 in metropolitan NSW and 235 in country areas.
The key indicators of public library use show that the public are using libraries more than ever. 2010 figures show:
- over 37 million visits to NSW public libraries (up 15% over the past 5 years)
- over 50.6 million loans (up 7% over the past 5 years)
- over 2.4 million internet hours used by the public
- 3.3 million library members (46% of the NSW population)
Source: State Library of NSW (2011), Public Library Statistics 2009/10
Statistics collection
Below is a selection of tools to assist New South Wales public libraries in collecting, submitting and analysing these statistics.
- Bibliostat Connect New South Wales Public Library Statistics
Note: This software is only available for New South Wales member public libraries.
We will notify New South Wales public libraries when this form is activated, so that you can collect your latest statistical data.
