Libraries & Archives

Libraries & Archives

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Organizations in this industry provide library or archive services, maintaining collections of print and electronic documents (such as books, journals, newspapers, and music) and facilitating their use for informational, research, educational, or recreational purposes. Major libraries and archives include the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the New York Public Library (all based in the US), as well as the British Library, Library Archives Canada, and the Russian State Library.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven by population. The success of libraries and archives depends on efficient operations and consistent funding. Large organizations may benefit from economies of scale in purchasing and administration. Small organizations can succeed by specializing or by serving an engaged community.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

School libraries account for about 85% of US libraries, according to the American Library Association (ALA). Public libraries, established under state laws to serve a community, district, or region, account for about 10%. Other libraries serve colleges and universities, units of the armed forces, businesses, law firms, religious institutions, medical organizations (hospitals, laboratories), and government agencies. About 70% of the industry's revenue is from government and private contributions, gifts, and grants. Other revenue sources are from the offering of library and archive services and licensing of rights to use intellectual property.