Yours probably wouldn’t get trapped because you’ve commented here before.

My understanding (possibly wrong) is that “library outlets” covers branches as well, and should be around 16,000; that’s a different question.

I’m pleased to see some feedback. I’m just guessing that there’s no real answer available, but we’ll see.

First, let me note that “library outlets” is the term used by IMLS (and the Census Bureau who actually does the data collection) to represent locations where library service is provided. This is distinct from “administrative entities” which represent “public libraries” or “public library systems” which may have one or more outlets, and whose administrative functions are located either in an “outlet” or in a separate physical location. [You might be surprised at how many of the latter exist, where the administration is located separately from any actually library services.]

The problem is in how libraries report closures even to the state. There is a part of the data collection process which includes identifying changes in outlets, referred to in the “handbook” as Outlet Structure Changes. There is currently a code (and I think it is new for the 2010 data collection) for temporary closures (expected to be less than a year). Some of that information is available on the IMLS web site. Look under Research, and look for the “Full User Manual.” [After the comment above, I am loathe to put in a link. email me if you have trouble finding it, or want to discuss it further.]

I am not clear about how much of that data comes through in the full data set, but I can certainly refer you to someone at IMLS who can tell you more.

I’d be happy with year-old or two-year-old numbers, if they were more clearly defined–and if they really meant final closures, not temporary shutdowns. Maybe those numbers aren’t feasible. So far, in looking at 6,000 of the 9,000-odd libraries (with about 350 left to go), I’ve seen precisely one case of a declared final shutdown–but I suppose libraries that are closed are less likely to have ghost websites.

I wouldn’t ever, ever suggest that the lack of clean numbers has anything to do with making library closures look like more of an issue than they really are (after all, a closure is much more dramatic than the slow loss of revenue), but…