A Guide to the Best Library Systems in the US
Libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They are cultural institutions that provide an array of services and resources.
With so many library systems across the country, it can be hard to know which ones are considered the best.
There are many different types of libraries from public to academic to school-based. In this article, we will look at some of the best systems in the US.
What are Library Systems in the US?
Library systems in the US are organizations that provide library services to a population of people. They coordinate statewide, regional, or multi-county library services and share resources between member libraries.
Such systems offer more than just collections of books, they also provide access to databases, eBooks, audiobooks, digital archives, journal articles and other media, but also typically assist with technology training and funding for local libraries.
Library Systems in the US offer access to library materials for those who live in areas too small or sparsely populated to support their own libraries.
Library Systems ultimately help connect people within communities through access to knowledge as well as cultural and recreational opportunities.
Let’s explore them!
New York Public Library System
The New York Public Library system is one of the most iconic library systems in America.
Serving Manhattan, The Bronx, and Staten Island, NYPL offers a variety of services such as research assistance, classes and workshops, access to digital archives, as well as book borrowing and computer access for patrons.
The NYPL also boasts a wide selection of books — 4.5 million volumes! — and its catalogue is accessible online for anyone who wants to browse its extensive selection from anywhere in the world.
Harvard University Library System
Harvard’s library system is one of the largest academic libraries in the world, with 18 million items housed across 70 separate libraries on campus.
This comprehensive system offers an incredible collection of books, manuscripts, audio recordings, photographs, artworks and more that span centuries worth of knowledge.
Harvard’s library system also has a wealth of online resources available for public use including its digital repository featuring over 6 million images and videos related to Harvard history with over 500 digital collections available online.
San Francisco Public Library System
The San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) provides a wide range of services, including access to books, eBooks & audiobooks; access to computers; educational programs; events & exhibits; job search assistance; English classes; technology classes; tutoring services; legal information sessions; storytimes for children & families; study areas & meeting rooms; and much more!
SFPL is also leading edge when it comes to technology with its state-of-the-art 3D printing lab for patrons—the first public 3D printing lab in California!
Plus, SFPL offers free Wi-Fi throughout all 21 branch locations so patrons can stay connected while they’re there or take advantage of their remote checkout service where you can check out materials online without even having to go into a branch location.
Boston Public Library System
The Boston Public Library has the distinction of being the first public library in the United States. The BPL system is one of the oldest, largest and most prestigious in the country.
It has a collection of over 17 million items, including books, DVDs, CDs and digital resources.
BPL also offers access to thousands of journals and newspapers through its databases. The library’s website features access to a wealth of information including catalogs, research guides and more.
The Boston Public Library has branches throughout Boston and surrounding communities.
There are also several off-site locations that offer services for people who cannot get to a branch location due to physical challenges or other reasons.
Chicago Public Library System
The Chicago Public Library system is one of the largest public library systems in the United States. It serves the residents of Chicago and Cook County, Illinois, with a collection of more than 2 million books, DVDs, CDs and other materials at 73 locations, including 13 free-standing libraries.
The library operates in cooperation with the Chicago Public Schools system and its students may have access to their library resources through the CPL’s “Circulation Interlibrary Loan Program.” The CPL also offers services such as homebound delivery, adult literacy programs and career counseling.
Los Angeles Public Library System
The Los Angeles Public Library system is the largest public library system in the world, with more than 20 million items. The LAPL offers its patrons a wide array of services and programs including computer and internet access, e-books and downloadable audio books.
The Los Angeles Public Library has over 640 branches across the city. It also has a mobile library service that transports books from branch libraries to remote locations like hospitals, senior centers and schools.
Conclusion
Libraries have come a long way since their inception centuries ago! Today’s libraries offer incredible resources both physically and virtually that span topics from research assistance to tech classes and 3D printing labs!
These library systems are some examples of how far our libraries have come by offering diverse services that cater not only to traditional book lovers, but also those seeking new technologies or looking for ways to expand their learning opportunities beyond what textbooks can offer them. With all these great offerings at our fingertips why not take advantage today? Let your local library show you what they have available!