The results are in!

The Public Library Association (PLA) has published the 2021 Public Library Staff and Diversity Survey Report! Read the report to learn about the latest nationwide trends in beginning librarian and library director salaries; traditional and emerging staff roles; staff diversity, recruitment, and retention efforts; and information about public library equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) goals and activities. The survey is the second in a rotating series of three national surveys exploring public library roles, services, and resources to provide actionable data for decision-making and advocacy. The report is available to everyone on the PLA website.

Register for a free PLA webinar on October 4 at 1:00 p.m. Central to learn more about the survey results and what opportunities and challenges they present for the future of public libraries.

Participate in the 2022 Survey This Fall

The 2022 PLA Annual Survey, Public Library Services for Strong Communities, will open next month. All US public libraries are encouraged to participate so the field can better understand current trends in how libraries meet the needs of their communities.

All libraries have free access to view key metrics and their own survey responses when they participate in PLA surveys. The PLA Benchmark tool has visualizations and peer comparison data for public libraries to use in planning and advocacy. Subscribe for upgraded access to the interactive data dashboards and to explore the full results from the 2021 Staff and Diversity Survey. All libraries that complete the 2022 survey will receive a 10% discount on an annual Benchmark subscription and a chance to win free PLA 2024 Conference registration!

Learn more about PLA surveys and research at the PLA Surveys and Data page. If you have questions or require assistance accessing your library’s Benchmark account, please contact [email protected].