For Immediate Release
September 9, 2008
Libraries are an Important Economic Resource for the Community
A new report identifies the economic benefits of the Anchorage Public Library
Mayor Mark Begich and Anchorage Public Library Director Karen Keller just released the results of a new report by University of Alaska Anchorage’s Institute of Social and Economic Research and the Anchorage Public Library.
The report, “Growing Minds and Strengthening Communities: An economic valuation study of the Anchorage Public Library,” found that APL generates a benefit between $10- and $18-million annually. This means that for every $1 of Municipal operating support, APL gives back between $1.42 and $2.46 in benefits to the community. The report also identifies benefits that can’t be calculated, such as APL’s role in strengthening communities, transforming lives, fostering economic growth, and improving the opportunities of our young people.
“As one of the oldest educational and research institutions in the city, Anchorage Public Library has transformed the lives of Anchorage residents for generations. The report substantiates APL’s value to the community by identifying the dollar figures of the many benefits offered by the library,” stated Anchorage Public Library Director Karen Keller.
Anchorage Public Library serves more than 850,000 visitors a year through the main Z.J. Loussac Public Library and five branches, spanning from Chugiak-Eagle River to Girdwood. More than 33,000 children and adults participated in library programs and over 1.5 million items circulated in 2007.
“The Anchorage Public Library is a valuable resource for our community,” said Mayor Mark Begich. “Our libraries strengthen our neighborhoods, enrich our lives, preserve our history, and nurture the minds and creativity of our youth.”
In 2006, Mayor Begich and library supporters launched the Anchorage Library Renewal Initiative to improve library operations, increase outreach to the community and fund a $21 million-plus capital campaign to upgrade library facilities. In 2007, the Muldoon Branch moved into a newly renovated space and the Samson-Dimond Branch upgraded technology and furnishings. In May 2008, the Scott and Wesley Gerrish Branch in Girdwood relocated into a brand new building. This fall, construction will begin on a new location for the Chugiak-Eagle River Branch and a restoration of the original Mountain View Branch. Plans are also in the works to renovate the Loussac Library and open a new branch downtown.
To view the report, click here
For questions, contact Clare Stockert at the Anchorage Public Library at 343-2983.