4

WHEN DO PEOPLE USE
THE LIBRARY?

VariaTioNs in the use of the public library reflect not
only the composition of the population but also seasonal,
economic, and social changes. There are three important tem-
poral patterns in library use: the long-run trend, relationship
to the business cycle, and seasonal variation.*

LONG-TERM TREND OF LIBRARY USE Although available
data were not designed for, and are not completely applica-
ble to, a specific analysis of this subject, there does appear
to be a long-range trend toward greater use of the public
library. Over a period of only about thirty years, the per
capita circulation of public libraries in this country has in-
creased from two to four times (Chart III). In every case in
a random sample of fifty-nine public libraries there has been
a steady rise in the use of the public library, as revealed by
this index. Public library circulation today, per capita, is
from 200 to 400 percent greater than it was thirty years ago.

Why has this increase occurred? Will it continue? Several
factors have undoubtedly contributed to the rise: larger and
stronger book collections, longer hours in which the library
is open for use, increased leisure time among people in gen-
eral, improved transportation, and the development of the
adult education movement. Perhaps the most important fac-

“There is also the matter of more or less regular fluctuations in library use
by the days of the week, and even by the hours of the day. These time pat-
terns, of importance for internal library administration, are not considered
of sufficient general interest for elaboration here.