For the second year in a row, Elmhurst Public Library received three out of five stars and a national ranking in Library Journal’s annual review of public libraries. This year, 7,513 public libraries were rated and only 262 qualified as star libraries. 

Library Journal reviews public library data reported to the government—visits, circulation, program attendance, and public Internet terminal use per capita—and ranks the best performing libraries within budget categories. Elmhurst Public Library placed 23rd nationwide and 6th in Illinois in the $5-9.9M category, with notably high visits and circulation per capita. 

In an article published with the rankings, Library Journal explored how libraries have reacted to the suffering state of the economy. For top libraries like Elmhurst Public Library, the two most long-established per capita measures—circulation and visits—rose dramatically compared with prerecession years. The best libraries have welcoming facilities with well-targeted programs, and collections with range and depth. Technology is an important factor affecting scores, although the underlying data report only use of public Internet computers and don’t include WiFi or laptop usage.

For the full article in Library Journal, visit http://features.libraryjournal.com/star-libraries/class-of-2011/americas-star-libraries-2011-top-rated-libraries/

The Elmhurst Public Library strives to enrich life in Elmhurst by providing opportunities to explore, learn and grow. The Library provides the support and resources for Elmhurst residents to develop a love of reading; access information for work and learning; pursue interests that will enrich their lives; understand changes in technology, society and culture; and gather and interact with each other. Elmhurst Public Library is a place for discovery at the heart of the community.