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South Dakota State Library Services

A list of services provided by the South Dakota State Library.

Public Libraries Survey (annual report)

The Public Libraries Survey (PLS) will be open February 1 - March 31, 2023.
  • The Public Libraries Survey (PLS) is a statistical survey of all public libraries in the U.S.
  • The State Library adds additional questions used for collecting additional administrative information and planning library development services.
  • All designated public libraries in South Dakota are required to by state statute (SDCL #14-2-40) to complete this annual statistical report.

Want to know more? Check out this video: Introduction to the SD Public Libraries Survey (6 min)

Access the Public Libraries Survey (PLS) at sd.countingopinions.com

The PLS opens February 1. A reminder announcement will be sent to library directors on opening day.

Directors should contact the State Library Data Coordinator to obtain the library's account credentials.

The online survey form includes links to supporting files and training videos.

Copies of your library's prior year surveys can be downloaded through the survey portal: 

  1. Log into your library's account and select the Public Library Survey from the Collection dropdown menu.
  2. Select the year you wish to download from the Period dropdown menu.
  3. Click on the Print prompt at the top of the Data Input screen.
  4. Click on the Print/Save Report button on the Print Form pop-up menu to download a printable PDF version of the annual report.

How can I use the Public Libraries Survey statistics?

The State Library makes the data available for use by South Dakota public librarians and their stakeholders. Use statistics from peer libraries to demonstrate need, for resource allocation, and to show the good your library does for your community.

If you want to know more or you would like help accessing and analyzing your library's data, contact the SDSL Data Coordinator.

Annual reports for individual public libraries are available on request. Contact the State Library Data Coordinator.

Here are a few tools to help you combine your library's financial and services statistics with information about patron expectations, community goals, and potential partnerships.