About Public Library Statistics
The Montana State Library Public Library Annual Statistical Report, also referred to as the Public Libraries Survey, provides statistics on the status of public libraries in Montana. The submission is an essential standard as outlined in Administrative Rules of Montana 10.102.1150A Public Library Standards: General. These statistics are in turn submitted to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), allowing peer comparisons between libraries of similar variables across the country.
Data includes information about library visits, circulation, size of collections, public service hours, staffing, electronic resources, operating revenues and expenditures and number of service outlets. These data are used by federal, state and local officials, professional associations, and local practitioners for planning, evaluation, and policy making.
The FY2021 Public Library Annual Statistical Report will open Fall 2021. Library directors will be notified of their login details prior to the survey opening date.
Bibliostat Collect
This tool is used to collect data for the Public Library Annual Statistical Report. Library directors should contact the Data Coordinator for login information.
Bibliostat Collect instructions
Bibliostat Connect
This tool is used to view and compare data from the Public Library Annual Statistical Report. Library directors should contact the Data Coordinator for login information.
Bibliostat Connect instructions
MLA presentation on using Bibliostat Connect
Data Elements Guide
This guide explains the various sections of the Public Library Annual Statistical Report and provides guidance on what information should be collected for each element.
Data Elements List
This document lists the data elements for the Public Library Annual Statistical Report and can be used as a quick reference while compiling data.
Electronic Materials Instructions
This document provides guidance on categorizing electronic materials such as databases, e-books, and video content.
Virtual Program Instructions
This document provides guidance on counting virtual program statistics. Virtual programming is a new addition to the report, and will be voluntary for FY2020.
