The Nevada State Library, Archives and Public Records (NSLAPR) participates annually in the national Public Libraries Survey (PLS), a program facilitated by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and compiled by the American Institutes for Research (AIR). The PLS has been gathering key data from public libraries across the country annually since 1988 to create a comprehensive picture of library services, resources, and usage nationwide.

The information collected through the survey is used by local, state, and federal agencies for planning, evaluation, and budgeting purposes. It also provides valuable insights that help demonstrate the impact of public libraries and support advocacy and funding efforts. More information about the PLS, including national data reports and definitions, is available on the IMLS website.

In Nevada, data submitted through the PLS also plays a critical role in determining eligibility for certain state-administered grant programs, including State Collection Development Grants and Rural Bookmobile Grants. To ensure consistency and reliability, all information reported must be accurate, verifiable, and based on records maintained by the library and/or local financial entities.

Libraries should report data that reflects activities from the previous fiscal year. The State Library uses Bibliostat CollectConnect, an online data collection platform, to streamline the annual submission and review process for Nevada’s public libraries.

2025 Public Library Survey (PLS) Update
Due to the nationwide closure of Baker & Taylor, the vendor that previously supported Nevada’s data collection platform (Bibliostat Collect and Connect), the annual Public Library Survey will be delayed this year. The Nevada State Library, Archives & Public Records is actively working to transition to a new system to ensure accurate, reliable statewide reporting. Updated timelines and instructions will be shared with libraries as soon as they are available. Thank you for your patience during this transition.

For more information about or support with the Public Libraries Survey, contact Library Planning and Development.

Email: nsla-lpd@admin.nv.gov 

Phone: 775-684-3305