Vol, 7, No. 18: May 12, 2008		Get SEAchange by email

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3. Libraries make significant economic impact, study shows

Wisconsin public libraries contribute more than $4 for every dollar taxpayers invest, according to an economic impact research report produced by NorthStar Economics Inc. of Madison, and commissioned by the Department of Public Instruction.

The research showed the total economic contribution of Wisconsin public libraries is more than $750 million every year. The return on investment in library services is $4.06 for each dollar of taxpayer investment. Wisconsin public libraries serve a total state population of 5.6 million and use of public libraries by citizens of the state is growing. Other key measures also have shown healthy growth.

"This study clearly tells us that public libraries are a valuable tax-supported institution," said State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster.

Other results of the study show that public libraries:

• create more than 3,200 jobs directly and more than 3,000 indirectly through economic activity.
• provide more than $427.9 million in total economic value through services provided to Wisconsin residents. This figure does not include services for which comprehensive statistics were not available.
• make a direct economic contribution to Wisconsin's economy of more than $326 million.

The research further indicates that Wisconsin public library users place a high value on the resources and services available and that, as library users age, they value the library services not only for themselves but also for their children and grandchildren. Additionally, libraries are considered a very good value by library users and non-users alike.

"Quantifying the economic impact of libraries on the local, regional, and state economy adds another important piece of information regarding the value of public libraries," said Burmaster. "Our public libraries nurture young readers, support K-12 students, and provide access to information and technology necessary for lifelong learning. Public libraries are centers of their communities and daily make invaluable contributions to local and regional economic development."

More information is available in a DPI news release.

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Last updated on 5/12/2008