Serving All Georgians

Strong public libraries are essential to a prosperous state.

They are the heart of every community and open to everyone. Libraries are essential to literacy, lifelong learning, and the healthy functioning of our democracy.

Georgia’s 407 public library facilities provide social benefits of $562.1 million and economic impacts of $170.7 million annually, according to a study published in 2020 by the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and funded by Georgia Public Library Service.

Georgia’s public libraries also provide tremendous value in return for the investment of public dollars and private donations. For each dollar funded to libraries, society receives an estimated $3.21 in goods and services plus indirect economic benefits, according to the study.

Libraries have reimagined their spaces, collections, and services to meet their community’s needs.

Many libraries partner with local organizations to provide innovative services, like addressing food insecurity by donating library garden produce or leading job search workshops at area homeless centers. Groups gather at the library to discuss books, learn STEAM skills (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), and much more.

Public library services extend beyond their walls to integrate into the communities they serve, as well as online.

The value of a library to its community is significant. As the one community institution that welcomes people at every age and stage of life, meeting their diverse needs and educational aspirations, the library symbolizes a community’s commitment to future generations.

Local and state elected officials in Georgia have long recognized this value by building and maintaining libraries in every county and supporting them generously.