Questions?
Contact Shawn Behrends, SDSL Data Coordinator, shawn.behrends@state.sd.us, 605-773-3131, option 6.
They are also available on the online PLS form.
Worksheet contains definitions and instructions for PLS data elements on the FY 2020 annual report. Also find detailed instructions for reporting library programs and website visits in the appendices.
What Goes Where help sheet gives instructions for which fields to report specific items such as your library's digital collections, grants received by the library, other income/expenditure items, programs, and special instructions for school/public combo libraries.
(coming soon) Video overviews of PLS report form are approximately five minutes each and have helpful and detailed information on completing your library's annual report. You can also find links to these videos at the beginning of each section on the PLS online form.
Public service hours (A24)
Q: Since our hours changed in April and again in July what should I put down? Our hours normally, currently, combination?
A: Fill in the schedule grid with the hours your library would normally be open (under non-pandemic circumstances.
Q: We normally have 8 public access computers but with COVID spacing we are down to 3. How would you like me to report that?
A: You probably had 8 until sometime in March and if you anticipate opening all stations up again after the pandemic, then report 8 and leave a note that says you reduced available public computers to 3 during the pandemic.
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.