10 Best Public Library Systems In The World
The 10 best public library systems have to be really special to stand out because, as you may know, many library systems are very much the same. The whole library genre would not seem to leave a lot of room for diversity but, surprisingly, one public library system can be worlds away from the next. Here are the 10 best public library systems along with some ways they can differ.
How Are They Rated?
Public library systems are ranked based on a number of factors. The Hennen's American Public Library Ratings specifically zeroes in on 15 different factors to compile its final list. Circulation, materials, reference services, and funding are among the criteria used to rank each public library system. Not only are all these criteria used in rankings but each one is assigned its own weight based on its perceived importance.
Only Available Information Can Be Used
As with any set of rankings, this list of the 10 best public library systems in the world has its limitations. Of course, objective criteria must be decided upon so that the rankings can be created in the first place but that's not all that you need to consider. You also need to remember that only available information can be used to help create the rankings.
This means that if information was not collected on a certain aspect of a public library system's functioning then that criterion cannot be used when it comes to compiling a list of the best systems. One such criterion that was omitted was the use of the internet by library patrons. The information was not collected by all library systems so it cannot be used.
What Does This Mean For Future Ratings?
This means that future ratings will be affected by any new criteria that are included. Most obviously, this will mean the inclusion of information regarding new library technologies. Even if all else stays the same the rankings may change.
What Does This Mean For Your Public Library System?
If your public library system is not on the list then that does not mean that yours is not a quality library. It just means that it does not rank as one of the very best according to the selected criteria. Your concern should be more for how useful your library system is for you.
The 10 Best
1. Cuyahoga County Public Library – Parma, OH
2. Columbus Metropolitan Library – Columbus, OH
3. Multnomah County Library – Portland, OR
4. Denver Public Library – Denver, CO
5. Salt Lake County Library System – Salt Lake City, UT
6. King County Library System – Issaqua, WA
7. Hennepin County Library – Minnetonka, MN
8. Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library – Cincinnati, OH
9. Baltimore County Public Library – Towson, MD
10. Indianapolis-Maryland County Public Library – Indianapolis, IN
These are the 10 best library systems in the world. Each one performed well in the right areas and received this honor based on those areas. When more areas are included then these public library systems may occupy different spots on the list.
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