The Role of Public Libraries in Local Economic Development

Abstract

The Institute for Public Policy and Business Research undertook this study on behalf of the Kansas State Library. The purpose of the study was to determine how Kansas public libraries could play a more active roll in supporting business and economic development in their communities. The study focused on three primary questions. (1) What is the current level of support for business and economic development by Kansas public libraries? (2) What are the ways that Kansas public libraries might be helpful to local businesses and economic development? (3) What specific steps can Kansas libraries take to develop more active economic development and business assistance programs?

The research employed three main tools: (1) focus groups with librarians and businesses, (2) case studies of four local libraries, and (3) surveys of public libraries, businesses, Chambers of Commerce, and Small Business Development Centers.