You don’t need to be a reader to use or love libraries. People in Ohio communities use the library in many ways. People check out books, movies and music. But they also attend public meetings in the community rooms, participate in book discussions and try their hand at new arts or crafts.

Did you know that some libraries lend passes to local museums and attractions? Or fishing gear? Or specialty baking pans? Some libraries even lend artwork.

Larger libraries in Northeast Ohio have technology centers that give private citizens and small business owners the ability to print in 3D, produce advertising banners, film commercials or even record music.

Libraries are also treasure troves of health information. From healthy cookbooks to exercise videos, libraries can help you find the path to good health. Librarians are experts at helping you spot evidence-based medical information, rather than information that could potentially cause harm.

Ohioans love their libraries. In 2023, residents of the state of Ohio used library services in every county. Total use across Ohio included:

• 7,412,010 registered borrowers (library card holders)

• 44,657,548 visits to Ohio libraries

• 111,996,081 physical materials circulated

• 38,934,690 downloadable materials circulated

• 5,463,880 people in attendance at library programs

For context, Ohio’s total population is 11.8 million residents.

Libraries are open to all who want to connect to information or to their communities. And as technology changes how information is published or displayed, libraries have pivoted to keep up in ways that individuals cannot.

If you are wondering what your local library offers, sign up for their free newsletter. You may be surprised to see the upcoming activities on their calendar.

Source: Data Ohio, Libraries by the Numbers