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At a time when public discourse has questioned the relevance of libraries and the role of librarians, the data tells a very different story: Texans across political perspectives and demographics strongly support their libraries, trust library professionals, and believe in maintaining broad access to information.
Libraries are essential to communities.
95% of Texans agree that public libraries play a vital role in providing free and equitable access to information, promoting literacy, and supporting workforce readiness.
90% say libraries should be treated as an essential public service—placing them alongside other critical community infrastructure.
92% are aware of a library in their community, and 80% of households have used library services within the past three years.
92% of library users report positive experiences.
These findings reinforce the role of libraries as cost-effective, locally driven solutions to education, digital access, and community engagement.
Texans express strong confidence in public librarians and library services.
89% trust librarians’ ability to select materials that reflect community needs and interests
92% agree librarians should ensure collections meet local informational, educational, and cultural needs.
94% percent agree libraries should provide access to a broad range of information and ideas
72% believe decisions about age-appropriate materials should be made at the local level—by parents and professional librarians—rather than through broad restrictions
“Texans have sent a clear message: public libraries matter, and they expect them to be supported and strengthened,” said Shirley Robinson, Texas Library Association Executive Director. “This research underscores that libraries are trusted, high-impact institutions that deliver real value to communities across our state. Continued investment in libraries is an investment in education, workforce development, and informed communities.”
Resources & Report
This month’s episode of the Texas Library Association’s podcast explores a powerful idea: What if the most impactful STEM learning in a school isn’t happening in a lab, but in the library?
National Library Week, taking place April 19–25, 2026, is a time to celebrate the vital role libraries and library professionals play in our communities.
