Library Journal named Eugene Public Library a “Star Library” for the third year in a row in its 2011 rankings. The designation means Eugene Public Library ranks among the top three percent of public libraries nationwide for excellence in cost-effective delivery of key services.
According to Eugene Public Library’s Director Connie Bennett, “Especially during these difficult economic times, Eugene Public Library has worked hard to develop increasingly efficient and cost-effective practices while continuing to provide the community with superior services. This Star Library rating confirms that we’re returning a very high value in services for each dollar our community invests in the Library. Compared objectively nationwide, Eugene Public Library stands out as a top performer.”
The Library Journal study, the Index of Public Library Service 2011, examined 7513 public libraries. Only 262 libraries, including Eugene Public Library, received a Star Library designation. Eugene Public Library’s delivery of services per capita was evaluated against public libraries with comparable budgets.
The libraries were judged on four factors. Two are traditional measures of library performance: number of visits, and circulation (number of items borrowed). The other two -- program attendance and public Internet computer use -- are recent additions, reflecting the changing ways that libraries now meet community needs.
Eugene Public Library serves 4000 visitors per day and processes nearly 3 million check-outs per year. The Library’s three locations provide 800 programs per year, ranging from storytimes to classes to entertainment. Nearly 39,000 community members of all ages benefit from these free events. The Library’s Internet and database computers provide nearly 25,000 user sessions each month. The Library Journal Index of Public Library Service 2011 is based on 2009 data reported by libraries to the Institute of Museum and Library Services.