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    The Future Role of Public Libraries in Pennsylvania

    Pennsylvania’s Public Libraries: An Assessment of Needs and Expectations

    A statewide assessment revealed how libraries support residents today—and what Pennsylvanians want for the future. The findings confirm that libraries remain trusted, widely supported, and central to community life.

    Download the Full Report
    Find Your Library
    a group of teenagers laughing around a tablet in a library

    Percentage of Pennsylvanians who agree...

    93% see the library as a trusted source of information.
    95% feel welcome at the library
    91% support using public funds to support libraries

    Why Libraries Matter

    Public libraries are essential institutions that support education, workforce development, digital access, and community connection throughout Pennsylvania.

    Libraries are community anchors—places where people learn, connect, and access essential services. They are especially important in rural areas where other services may be limited.

    Pennsylvanians Strongly Support Their Libraries

    Pennsylvanians believe in investing in their libraries. Library users and non-users support using public dollars, funded by taxes, to sustain libraries.

    They see libraries as welcoming and as trusted sources of information and largely view libraries as still serving a legitimate purpose in today’s world of widely available online access and content. 

    Two adults in a cheery conversation at a library

    What Residents Want

    Pennsylvanians agree that every library should offer:

    • Books and digital materials
    • Technology access
    • Programs and events
    • Help finding information
    A group of senior citizens, taking a selfie in the library

    Libraries Support a Changing Pennsylvania

    Libraries help residents by providing:

    • WiFi and computers
    • Digital skills classes
    • Telehealth support
    • Accessible materials
    • Programs for all ages

    Download the Full Report

    This report, led by Blue Willow Consulting for the Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL), explores how public libraries in Pennsylvania can adapt to changing demographic, economic, and technological conditions. Conducted from October 2024 to June 2025, the research assessed the needs and expectations of residents, both library users and non-users, through statewide surveys, interviews, and community engagement. The goal was to identify effective ways to deliver library services, enhance data sharing, and raise awareness of the vital role of Pennsylvania's public libraries.

    96% of responders agreed libraries still serve a legitimate purpose in today's world, where consumers have easy access to information via the Internet and social media.

    This project is made possible in part by federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Commonwealth Libraries.