Libraries

Lee Rainie presents new survey findings about how people use libraries, the kinds of services and programs people would like from libraries, and how libraries are connected to communication education and learning environments.

Americans believe libraries are important community institutions and profess interest in libraries offering a range of new program possibilities. Yet, even as the public expresses interest in additional library services, there are signs that the share of Americans visiting libraries has edged downward over the past three years.

Hispanic immigrants are less likely than U.S.-born Hispanics, whites and blacks to use public libraries. But Hispanic immigrants who have made their way to public libraries stand out as the most appreciative of what libraries have to offer.

Hispanic immigrants are less likely than U.S.-born Hispanics, whites and blacks to use public libraries. But Hispanic immigrants who have made their way to public libraries stand out as the most appreciative of what libraries have to offer.

The latest findings from the Pew Research Center's library research and the implications of that research for the future of libraries

Many experts say the rise of embedded and wearable computing will bring the next revolution in digital technology. Lee Rainie shares the latest research from Pew about libraries and puts it into context with the expanding Internet of Things.

How those under 30 engage with libraries and think about libraries’ role in their lives and communities

An overview of three years of research into Americans’ relationships with public libraries in the digital age.

What does library engagement look like in different community types?

Some 77% of Americans now think it is “very important” for public libraries to provide free access to computers and the internet to the community. (For comparison, 80% of Americans say the same thing about books.)