Return on investment (ROI)

Intangible and indirect benefits of the library

The public library provides important intangible and indirect benefits and has become increasingly vital in this era because of the reliance on - and expectation of - public access to networked information services and resources. As the nation and the world continue to move into the networked invironment with increased access to a broad range of digital information, one may reasonably expect additional economic benefits to result from networked services and programs in the public library. (p.225)

Reference:

Describing the economic impacts and benefits of Florida public libraries: Findings and methodological applications for future work

New Zealand valuation of library services

The National Library of New Zealand found a 3.5:1 benefit-cost ratio in their national bibliographic database through use of a CM (choice modeling) survey. (p.441)

Reference:

Using the contingent valuation method for dollar valuations of library services

Norwegian valuation of library services

Another CV (contingent valuation) survey of public libraries... has recently been reported by Svanhild Aabo, who estimated that Norwegian public libraries represent, on average, a 4:1 benefit-cost ratio. (p.441)

Reference:

Using the contingent valuation method for dollar valuations of library services

British valuation of library services

One of the most notable examples of a CVM [contingent valuation method] application was undertaken by consultants employed by the British Library, who found that the overall benefit of its services to the British public was around 4.4 times the funding the library recieves from the government. (p.440-1)

Reference:

Using the contingent valuation method for dollar valuations of library services