How does your library rank?

For years libraries have been comparing themselves to other libraries. There have been several ways that libraries have been ranked. The Hennen rankings and most recently the LJ Index of Public Library Service 2009 are two such rankings for public libraries. It does not mater what algorithm is used to determine the ranking or which outputs or inputs are used. There are always fine libraries that do not make it to the top of the ranked lists.

Does it mater where your library falls in a ranking? Maybe to the Mayor or the board but does it really mater to the patrons that come into the library on a daily basis. Not really. They want service and service is what you should give them. The support of the community for the library is one of the best gauges of success not some arbitrary number ranking.

That said, if you really want to compare yourself watch what factors you use. Libraries have differing levels of population in relation to their income. Compare yourself using both factors. You will be surprised to see different libraries on each list. The Bibliostat tool that public libraries use to report annual library data can give you quick and easy access to comparison data.

What I find more helpful and interesting if for a library to compare themselves against themselves. Take the same statistics and see how they compare over 5 years. Are they going up or down.? Do they reflect a change in the community, staffing, income? This type of comparison can be much more meaningful for a library that comparisons with others who may or not be like you.