Statistics Worksheets

Importance of Statistics

With good statistics you can:

  • Show how the use of the library goes up over time
  • Compare and contrast your library to nearby libraries or other libraries of the same size
  • Combine census information and library statistical data in grant applications
  • Illustrate the effectiveness of library services and programs

Gathering Statistics

This page is designed to help librarians gather statistics for use locally and for the annual report. Statistics need not be difficult to compile.The state library has created several types of statistics gathering sheets for you to download and place at service desks. Simple tick marks in the appropriate categories effectively capture data. Some libraries even use clicker counters to tally reference transactions or visitor numbers.

If your staff is too busy to take accurate statistics daily, then pick one week per quarter when all staff really focuses on capturing the numbers. Try to pick an 'average' week each quarter.

Sample worksheets

  • Annual Report Yearly Expenditures and Revenue Worksheet [Word, 257 KB], [PDF, 31 KB]
  • Annual Report Weekly Stats Worksheet [Word, 36.2 KB], [PDF, 169 KB]
  • Annual Statistics [Excel, 90 KB]

Sources for Statistics

Types of statistics and where to find them
Statistic Source Alternate Source
Circulation Automation system Quarterly tally at circulation desk
Reference Daily tally at service desk Quarterly tally at service desk
ILL Borrowed Automation system Quarterly tally at circulation desk
ILL Loaned Automation system Quarterly tally at circulation desk
Computer use Daily tally at service desk Automation System
Books added to collection Automation system Daily tally
Books discarded from collection Automation system Daily tally
Number of library visits Door counter Quarterly tally at circulation desk
Number of library programs Daily tally  Daily tally
Number of program attendees Daily tally Daily tally
Fines collected Automation system Daily tally