Library Journal Names 258 Star Libraries in Its Second Round of the LJ Index of Public Library Service 2009

Library Journal has identified the new group of America’s Star Libraries, as rated by the LJ Index of Public Library Service, a national rating of public libraries. The LJ Index, sponsored by Baker & Taylor’s Bibliostat, offers an overall indication of how a library’s performance stacks up to peer libraries and provides guidance on how all public libraries can better assess and improve what they provide to their users.

Media attention in recent months has focused on the key role libraries are playing during the current economic crisis. America’s Star Libraries identifies 258 libraries nationwide that are delivering exceptional service. Overall, the LJ Index scores not just the Star Libraries but 7,268 public libraries with total expenditures of $10,000 or more that serve populations of at least 1,000 according to four per capita output measures that indicate public service—circulation, visits, program attendance, and public Internet use. The top libraries in each category, organized by ranges of operating expenditures, are assigned five, four, or three Michelin guide-like stars.

LJ released the first round of the LJ Index in February 15, 2009. This second round is based on 2007 data from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Fifty-eight libraries received their first star library ratings this round, including Central Rappahannock Regional, VA; Ela Area PL, IL; and Jacksonville PL, FL; Star libraries come from across the United States, but New York leads the state by state line-up with 37.

For more on how the stars realigned and how public libraries across the United States are using the LJ Index to improve their services, access full coverage of the new round of America’s Star Libraries and the entire LJ Index at www.LibraryJournal.com/ljindex2009X and in the November 15 issue of LJ.

About Library Journal

In its 133rd year of publication, Library Journal is the oldest and most respected publication covering the library field, read by over 100,000 library directors, administrators, and staff. LJ is published by Reed Business Information (www.reedbusiness.com/us), North America’s largest business-to-business information provider and part of Reed Elsevier (NYSE: RUK and ENL).