The State of America’s Libraries Report 2012 sheds some light on what our leading professional organization (American Library Association [ALA]) views as successes, failures, topics of concern, and key focus areas for upcoming years. The document celebrates success stories, while thoroughly documenting the challenges libraries are facing due to budget cuts and the constantly changing digital landscape.

The special report highlights that while change is nearly constant in libraries, one thing will forever remain clear and true. Libraries transform lives. Libraries innovate, and are constantly seeking ways to do more and improve service to patrons.