Quick Reference: MSL Terms, Acronyms, and Lingo

Public Library Survey (PLS)

The Montana State Library Public Library Annual Statistical Report, also referred to as the Public Libraries Survey (PLS), provides statistics on the status of public libraries in Montana. The submission is an essential standard as outlined in Administrative Rules of Montana 10.102.1150A Public Library Standards: General. These statistics are in turn submitted to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), allowing peer comparisons between libraries of similar variables across the country. 

Data includes information about library visits, circulation, size of collections, public service hours, staffing, electronic resources, operating revenues and expenditures and number of service outlets. These data are used by federal, state and local officials, professional associations, and local practitioners for planning, evaluation, and policy making.