91´«Ã½

CHICAGO — A report released today by the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) explores the growing area of library programming and proposes an ambitious, eight-year research plan to explore how programs reach library users and impact communities.

The (NILPPA) presents a research agenda to understand and quantify the characteristics, audiences, outcomes and impacts of library programming in the United States. The project also seeks to start a conversation among practicing library professionals and partners about programming efforts, accomplishments and concerns in their libraries. (Share your experiences at .)

The report is the result of a one-year planning grant funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and led by 91´«Ã½’s Public Programs Office in collaboration with and facilitated by researchers at New Knowledge Organization, Ltd. Among the key questions it poses are:

• What counts as "success" in library programming?
• What impact does programming have on participants and communities?
• What skills must programming librarians hone to maximize impact and reach underserved communities?

“As library professionals, we see the impacts of programming every day, but we often lack sufficient data on whether, and how, these efforts are working,” said Mary Davis Fournier, deputy director of 91´«Ã½’s Public Programs Office and NILPPA project director. “This is a largely unexplored area of research in the library field. We hope that NILPPA will inspire an array of in-depth studies to chart the impact trajectory of library programs, develop best practices, help to leverage community support for libraries, and foster lifelong learners of diverse backgrounds.”

During the proposed three-phase research plan, researchers will “map the terrain” of library program types and experiences; collect quantitative and qualitative data to better understand programs, particularly program innovators; create tools and professional competencies related to library programming and develop a model to explain how programming responds to change, affects the perception of libraries and even predicts change in communities.

Prior research has shown a marked increase both in library program participation and offerings. In 2011, 89 million people attended 3.8 million programs at U.S. public libraries, according to the . This represented a 32 percent increase in attendance and a 46 percent increase in the number of programs compared to 2004.

The report is available at . Readers are invited to comment on the report’s findings and discuss their own practices, questions and concerns related to library public programming; reader comments will help inform the next phase of NILPPA research. Comments may be shared privately on the website. Join the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #libraryimpact.

About the 91´«Ã½

The 91´«Ã½ is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with approximately 58,000 members in academic, public, school, government and special libraries. The mission of the 91´«Ã½ is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

About 91´«Ã½’s Public Programs Office

91´«Ã½’s Public Programs Office provides leadership, resources, training and networking opportunities that help thousands of librarians nationwide develop and host cultural programs for adult, young adult and family audiences. The mission of the 91´«Ã½ Public Programs Office is to promote cultural programming as an essential part of library service in all types of libraries. Projects include book and film discussion series, literary and cultural programs featuring authors and artists, professional development opportunities and traveling exhibitions. School, public, academic and special libraries nationwide benefit from the office’s programming initiatives.

About New Knowledge Organization, Ltd.

New Knowledge Organization Ltd. (NewKnowledge) is a nonprofit research institute that works to advance our collective understanding of how people develop knowledge in their communities and are motivated to address the grand challenges facing society. Founded in 2012 and based in New York City, NewKnowledge works with organizations throughout the U.S. on experiences in culture, media, health and wellness and the biosphere.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s and . Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit and follow us on and .