Welcome to Library Research Service

LRS thoughtfully collects, analyzes, and distributes data that is relevant and actionable to Colorado communities and empowers library staff to do the same.

QUICK LINKS

Are PRISon libraries Motivators of pro-social behavior and successful re-entry?

The PRISM Project used mixed methods–focus groups inside prisons in Colorado, as well as with previously incarcerated people, and surveys, also with both populations to determine the outcomes of library services in prisons.

Read the final report and explore the toolkit with sample surveys, lessons, learned, and additional reflections.

PRISM Report

PRISM Toolkit

Connect to Health Cohort Resources

Participant survey

PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN COLORADO

Public libraries: 112
K-12 public school libraries: 1,183
Public college and university libraries: 33

Sources: 2024 Public Library Annual Report (PLAR), Colorado Department of Education (CDE), 2021 Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)

FAST FACTS

Thumbnail of screenshot from 2024 challenges report infographic

Colorado Public Library Challenges to Materials and Services: 2024

Amy Bahlenhorst

August 19, 2025

Annual information gathered from the 2024 Public Library Annual Report (PLAR) survey, as well as a follow up survey which gathers details of the challenges reported on the PLAR.