Politics & Government

Lower Merion Library System Earns Star Ranking, Top 5% of All Libraries

A Lower Merion Township press release provides details about the Library's achievement.

The Library Journal (LJ) Index, a national rating system designed to recognize and promote America's public libraries, has named the Lower Merion Library System (LMLS) a "Star Library" in its October 2010 edition, awarding the System four out of a possible five stars. LMLS was joined by Sewickley Library in Alleghany County as one of only two in Pennsylvania to attain this prestigious ranking.

LJ Index scores and star ratings are based on data reported annually by public libraries to their state library agencies and compiled nationally by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The October 2010 ratings are based on IMLS public libraries data for 2008.

Scores are based on four per capita service output statistics: library visits, circulation, program attendance and public Internet computer use. To receive an LJ Index rating a library must meet the IMLS definition of a public library, have a service area with at least 1,000 population and have total operating expenditures of at least $10,000. Rated systems include those with expenditures of over $30 million annually; LMLS' was rated in the expenditure range category of $5 million to under $10 million.

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Nationally, only 258 "star" libraries were identified from a total 7,407 rated. LMLS was one of 63 libraries receiving their first star ratings. According to the Library Journal article, the statistics libraries keep have always mattered, but may be more important than ever in the face of ongoing and broad cuts libraries are seeing nationwide.

"It is vital to illustrate the accomplishments of libraries," remarked Commissioner George Manos, Library Committee Chair. "This accomplishment by the Lower Merion Library System reminds us all once again of the valuable resources provided to our citizens through our libraries and the importance of continuing to support this nationally-ranked system to maintain its excellence."

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LMLS has also been nationally recognized by the HAPLR (Hennen's American Public Library Rating) ratings, scoring consistently in the Top 20 for its population category. HAPLR measurements focus on a combination of input and output studies including circulation per capita, circulation per hour, annual visits per capita, annual visits per registered borrower, visits per hour, operating cost per capita, and volumes per capita.

In citing LMLS as a "Star Library," the LJ article pointed out that "...annual increases in library traffic during 2008 masked even more dramatic increases late in the year." Township Library Director Christine Steckel, who was quoted in the article, noted "the fourth-quarter explosion in all activity levels as the recession rolled through the international landscape."

2008's impressive fourth quarter surge continued in 2009, with Ludington Library alone recording the circulation of 661,345 items, welcoming 364,591 visitors, signing up 53,290 internet users, answering 83,551 reference and information questions, and offering 298 programs to 10,995 attendees. Currently underway is the Ludington Renovation Project, which will add 10,400 square feet to Lower Merion's flagship resource library and the highest circulating public library in Montgomery County. The renovation focuses on improving public space, marketing the collection, creating better sight lines for security and addressing many delayed maintenance items

"It is our hope that this high-profile national recognition will remind citizens to support the Capital Campaign for all of Lower Merion's libraries," said Charles J. Bloom, Chairman of the Lower Merion Library Foundation. "With giving currently at over $2 million, we still have much to do to arrive at our $5 million goal, which will provide lasting improvements to our award-winning Library System." Potential donors are asked to contact the Lower Merion Library Foundation at 610-645-6123 or campaign@lmls.org.


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