The Public Libraries Evaluation Network (PLEN) is a nation-wide data collection initiative designed to help libraries better understand and illustrate their value.
Delivered by Culture Counts, the project has completed its sixth year in conjunction with Public Libraries Australia (PLA) and 38 participating libraries, to collect 20,800 survey responses across five states in Australia.
Overview
This report provides a snapshot of the Public Library Evaluation Network (PLEN) results from 2024–25, to better understand and illustrate the vital outcomes generated by libraries. The report also includes year-on-year comparisons beginning from the first year of the project (2019).
The use of agreed outcome indicators provides strong evidence of the impact of libraries, beyond visitor numbers and lending statistics. Libraries in the network measure the value that they add to the communities’ wellbeing, across areas including literacy and lifelong learning, digital inclusion, community engagement, economic and workforce development, and personal development and wellbeing.
Highlights
- Safe: 94% of respondents agree that the library makes them feel safe and welcome (1% from 23–24)
- Relevance: 71% of respondents agree that the library is changing in ways to increase its relevance for them (same from)
- Skills: 66% of respondents agree that the library has helped them learn and gain new skills (2% increase from 23–24)
As the project continues, Culture Counts will continue to document and share valuable case studies with the network, helping members to implement change to generate greater impact for their communities. We encourage libraries from all parts of Australia to join the network and help to grow the database, insights and learning opportunities.
Join the network
The Public Libraries Evaluation Network can help you better facilitate the planning and delivery of your programs and services. PLEN combines the Culture Counts Evaluation Platform, our outcomes-based framework and a reporting dashboard. Contact our friendly Client Team to find out how you can get involved or download your free Library Evaluation Guide to get started.
