The trend we cannot ignore: library closings in America

Abstract

Purpose

To introduce the growing trend of closings of public libraries in the USA due to funding shortages.

Design/methodology/approach

Body of knowledge compiled by author from current news and professional sources and personal historical files.

Findings

While public libraries are being heavily used, they still face funding challenges due to tax resistance, the economic down‐turn, and competition for their services.

Originality/value

The column stresses the importance of public library administrators to track and respond to public support.

Citation

Long, S.A. (2005), "The trend we cannot ignore: library closings in America", New Library World, Vol. 106 No. 5/6, pp. 284-285. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074800510595887