1. www.krcresearch.com Texas Library Association Prepared for: November 2008 Perceptions of Public and School Libraries: Statewide Survey of Texas Voters

2. 2 page Research Framework3 Objectives4 Methodology5 Executive Summary6 Detailed Findings10 Public Libraries10 School Libraries28 Library Funding41 Respondent Profile50 Table of Contents

3. www.krcresearch.com Research Framework

4. 4 Research Objectives To gauge perceptions of public and school libraries and librarians among Texas voters; To determine levels of support for and satisfaction with public and school libraries; To understand drivers of support and desire for library services; To measure voter support for a greater public commitment to community libraries; and, To serve as set of benchmark measures.

5. 5 Methodology METHOD: Texas statewide telephone survey DATA COLLECTION: October 17 to November 2, 2008 SAMPLE SIZE: 1,201 interviews total SAMPLE: A “random-digit dial” sample was used, whereby every household in our defined geographic region has an equal probability of being reached. Participants were then screened by age (adults 18 and older) and voter registration status (currently registered to vote in Texas at the address where they received the call). WEIGHTING: Data were weighted to reflect the proper demographic and geographic distribution of the adult voter population (guided by 2008 exit polls and Texas Secretary of State registered voter data). Age and Party affiliation were weighted. MARGIN OF ERROR: Estimated margin of error at the 95% confidence level for proportions near 50% is ±2.8%.

6. www.krcresearch.com Executive Summary

7. 7 Executive Summary: Public Libraries Public libraries enjoy strong and intense support from Texas voters. Overwhelming majorities across every demographic and geographic sub- group of voters believe public libraries are important to their community and report being satisfied with their public library –Personal interaction with libraries is critical – the more frequently voters use their public library the more important they believe it is to the community and the more satisfied they are with their library –While all voters are supportive and satisfied, female, less affluent, African American and Hispanic voters feel most intensely positive Texas voters are nearly unanimous in their belief that public libraries create educational opportunities for all citizens and improve the quality of life in their community Public libraries are also valuable to Texans and their communities in these turbulent economic times – providing important resources to families and job seekers, and supporting the economy through job skills training, career and job information and resources for local businesses Texans say library services are very important to the community, particularly providing access to information and resources and reading programs and activities for children, teens and adults. Every service asked about was rated very important by at least six in ten voters

8. 8 Executive Summary: School Libraries As with public libraries, school libraries also enjoy strong and intense voter support – regardless of parental status or any other demographic or regional variance School libraries and professional librarians are viewed as essential to the education of Texas children. Texas voters say school libraries are as important as classroom education and more than eight in ten believe that school libraries make a major contribution to children’s education While positive feelings are high across every subgroup, women, older and Hispanic voters – as well as frequent public library users – are the most intensely supportive of school libraries compared to their counterparts School libraries are viewed as essential because they provide opportunities for children to develop reading and research skills and voters see a link between academic success and strong libraries Texas voters are willing to take their support of school libraries to the legislature. More than nine in ten voters support statewide legislation to require access to a school library and professional librarian

9. 9 Executive Summary: Funding Even in these difficult budget times, Texas voters want more funding for both public and school libraries – and no cuts Texas voters believe public libraries are a good value for the tax dollar and nearly nine in ten say their public library deserves more funding Thus, majorities support increasing public funding for both public (81%) and school (82%) libraries. Support for increased funding is high and consistent across the state At least 7 in 10 voters across every demographic, geographic, or political group support increasing funding for both school and public libraries Not only are voters supportive of funding increases, but the vast majority are opposed to funding cuts for school and public libraries Texans, especially parents and frequent library users, are most concerned that funding cuts would make fewer books and resources available

10. www.krcresearch.com Public Libraries

11. 11 Key Findings: Public Libraries Public libraries enjoy strong and intense support from Texas voters Overwhelming majorities across every demographic and geographic sub-group of voters believe public libraries are important to their community and report being satisfied with their public library Personal interaction with libraries is critical – the more frequently voters use their public library the more important they believe it is to the community and the more satisfied they are with their library While all voters are supportive and satisfied, female, less affluent, African American and Hispanic voters feel most intensely positive Texans value their public libraries because of the educational opportunities and free resources they provide to all in the community, and believe libraries are a good taxpayer value and make important contributions to the local economy Thus, nearly nine in ten voters believe their public libraries deserve more funding In terms of services and programs, voters place the most importance on providing access to information and resources and reading programs and activities for children, teens and adults

12. 12 Q5. How important is the public library to your community — very important, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? Across the state, the overwhelming majority of Texas voters believe their public library is an important part of the community 92% Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West 82% 72% 78% 81% 82% % Very Important Overall 79% At least 6 in 10 voters across every demographic, geographic and political sub-group believe their public library is very important to their community. Voters in the Northern and Eastern parts of the state are most intense in their feelings of community importance.

13. 13 Q5. How important is the public library to your community — very important, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? Although all groups assert their library is very important, women show more intensity while younger and more educated men trail slightly EducationAge WomenMen WomenMen 95% 86%89%95% 85%91% Texans of different ages vary in how important they think their library is. Those aged 50-64 are significantly more likely to say their library is very important (87%) than other age groups (under 30, 75%; 30-39, 77%; 40-49, 75%; and 65+, 78%) College degreeNo degreeCollege degreeNo degree Under 4545+Under 4545+ Not at all important Slightly unimportant Very importantFairly important

14. 14 Q5. How important is the public library to your community — very important, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? African American and less affluent voters are also slightly more intense in their belief that public libraries are important to their community RaceHousehold Income African American White 95% 91% Hispanic $75k+Under $40K 92% 94%88% $40-$75k Not at all important Slightly unimportant Very importantFairly important

15. 15 Q5. How important is the public library to your community — very important, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? The importance of libraries is strong and intense regardless of political affiliation, Republican and Independent male voters show slightly less support than women and Democratic men WomenMen RepublicansIndependentsDemocratsRepublicansIndependentsDemocrats 95%94%95%85%92%87% Not at all important Slightly unimportant Very importantFairly important

16. 16 Similar to what we saw on the national general public survey front in 2006 – Texas voters are solidly satisfied with their library 90% Q6. Overall, thinking of your public library, based on what you know or have heard or read, how satisfied are you with your public library – extremely satisfied, very satisfied, somewhat satisfied, only a little satisfied, or not at all satisfied? Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West 67% 74% 70% 73% 74% % Extremely or Very Satisfied 2006 ALA data 89% Overall 72% At least 6 in 10 voters across every demographic, geographic and political sub-group are either extremely or very satisfied with their library. Voters in the Northeastern, Central, and Western parts of the state are most intense in their feelings of satisfaction.

17. 17 Frequently (37%)Infrequently (41%)Rarely or not at all (21%) Use at least once every three weeksUse at least a few times a yearUse once a year or less Women (40%) vs. Men (34%)Democrats (42%) and Republicans (46%) vs. Independents (33%) Republican men (26%) and Independent men (27%) vs. Democrat men (13%) Democrats (38%) and Independents (45%) vs. Republicans (31%) Those whose kids use the library infrequently (80%) vs. frequently (20%) or not at all (40%) Those without a high school education or less (27%) vs. those with a college degree (20%) Parents (43%) vs. non-parents (34%)Those making over $50k (44%) vs. under (37%) Non-parents (25%) vs. parents (13%) Those making less than $40K (41%) vs. $40-75k (36%) and $75K+ (33%) Those living in urban areas (41%) and suburban (45%) vs. rural (31%) Those whose kids don’t use the library (55%) vs. use frequently (5%) or infrequently (8%) Younger Texans – under 30 (46%), 30-39 (42%), 40-49 (34%), 50-64 (36%), 65+ (26%) Those over 45 (26%) vs. under (16%) Those whose kids use the library frequently (75%) vs. those whose kids use infrequently (13%) or not at all (6%) Those living in rural areas (31%) vs. urban (18%) Non-Caucasian Texans (41%) vs. Caucasians (34%) Those living in urban areas (41%) vs. suburban (31%) Who is most likely to use the public library…

18. 18 Not surprisingly, frequency of use impacts attitudes – the more voters interact with their public library, the more intense their ratings on community importance and personal satisfaction Importance (Q5)Satisfaction (Q6) Frequent user (at least once every three weeks), less frequent user (use at least a few times a year) and non-users (use once a year or less) Frequent library user Infrequent user NonuserFrequent library user Infrequent user Nonuser How frequently the kids of voters use the library also plays a role in perceptions. Those whose kids use the library frequently are more likely to say their library is very important (88% vs. those whose kids who use the library less frequently, 64%, or not at all, 60%) and are more likely to be extremely or very satisfied with their library (74% frequent users and 75% infrequent users vs. those whose kids do not use the library, 53%) 98%93%79%95%94%74%

19. 19 Support is high across the board, but who are public libraries’ biggest fans? Most likely to say their pubic library is “Very Important” to their community: Most likely to be “Extremely Satisfied” or “Very Satisfied” with their public library: Women Women (86% vs. 72% men, particularly men under 45 years old, 68%) Women (76% vs. 68% men) Non-Caucasian Texans Non-Caucasian Texans (82% vs. 77% of Caucasians)African American Texans (81% vs. 73% of Caucasians and 67% of Hispanics) Those making less than $50K a year Those making less than $50K year (82% vs. those who make $50K+ 74%) Those making less than $50K year (75% vs. those who make $50K+ 69%) Those without a college degree Those with no college degree (81% vs. 75% those with a degree) Those with no college degree (75% vs. 68% those with a degree) Library users Those who use the library frequently (92% vs. those who use the library less frequently, 75%, or not at all, 63%) Library users (79% of frequent users and 75% infrequent users vs. those who do not use the library 56%) Those with kids who use the library Those whose kids use the library frequently (88% vs. those whose kids who use the library less frequently, 64%, or not at all, 60%) Those whose kids use the library (74% frequent users and 75% infrequent users vs. those whose kids do not use the library, 53%) Democrats Democrats (84% vs. Republicans 73% ) Older Texans Those 45+ (82% vs. under 45, 76%)

20. 20 Q7-15. I’m going to read you a short list of statements about public libraries. For each one, please tell me if you agree or disagree with that statement. Here's the first one: [READ ITEM]? Would you say you strongly agree with this statement, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or do you strongly disagree? Texas voters strongly agree that public libraries provide a range of positive community impacts – particularly educational opportunities and access to programs, services and resources for all Total Agree 97% 96% 95% 96% Public libraries create educational opportunities for all citizens. Public libraries provide important programs and services for children and young people. Public libraries promote lifelong learning across the community. Free access to quality library services and resources gives everyone an opportunity to succeed. Public libraries improve the quality of life in our community.

21. 21 Q7-15. I’m going to read you a short list of statements about public libraries. For each one, please tell me if you agree or disagree with that statement. Here's the first one: [READ ITEM]? Would you say you strongly agree with this statement, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or do you strongly disagree? Texas voters also believe public libraries make economic sense – they are a good value, provide important services in hard times and deserve more funding Total Agree 94% 87% 83% 90% Public libraries are a good value for the tax dollar. During economic hard times, public libraries provide important resources to families and job seekers. My public library deserves more funding. Public libraries support the local economy through job skills training, career and job information, and resources for local businesses.

22. 22 Q16-26. I’m going to read you a list of services public libraries may offer. Please tell me how important each of the following services is to your community. Here's the first one: [READ ITEM]? Would you say this is very important to your community, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? Texas voters also strongly believe public libraries and librarians offer a number of critical services such as programs for kids and teens, free access to resources and help accessing information Total Important Reading programs and organized activities, such as story time and book clubs, for children and young people. Free access to diverse and current books and other materials. Help in finding and assessing information and resources. Adult reading and literacy programs. Access to the Internet. Computer access, training and support. Help with homework and after school programs for teens. 95% 92% 89% Top tier services

23. 23 Q16-26. I’m going to read you a list of services public libraries may offer. Please tell me how important each of the following services is to your community. Here's the first one: [READ ITEM]? Would you say this is very important to your community, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? Access to information about certain specific topics, such as health and financial information, is also important to Texans but garners less intensity Total Important Accurate and up-to-date health information. Information, support and assistance with job preparation and placement. Community forums and programs such seniors groups, cultural programs, etc. Accurate and up-to-date financial and business information. 91% 88% 89% 86% Second tier services

24. 24 A majority of all groups said each item is very important. Reading programs was the highest rated item for each group, although Hispanic voters also stress Internet and computer access GenderPartyCollegeParentsAgeIncomeRace Abbreviated item TotalMenWomenRepDemIndepDegree No degree Kids No kids <4545+ >$75 K $40- 75K <$40KWAAH Reading programs and organized activities 8377898086818284 82808582 85828684 Free access to diverse and current books 807385768379827879807981778180 8180 Help in finding and assessing information and resources 7972857182817879 7681777581778281 Adult reading and literacy programs 787384748377767975807681747681778378 Access to the Internet 7671817183777478 757875707681718584 Help with homework 76708269847368817577 756973847284 Computer access, training and support 7668837082767377 757774697483718581 Health information 696573617871647267706771626677648076 Job preparation and placement 6863735877706172667068 576777627877 Community forums and programs 6760745872 636968676668656371637972 Financial and business information 635570606763576662636462576368587469 % Very Important

25. 25 In terms of priorities less affluent voters rank help with homework more highly, while the range of adult programs and services is of particular importance to older voters GenderPartyCollegeParentsAgeIncomeRace Abbreviated item TotalMenWomenRepDemIndepDegree No degree Kids No kids <4545+ >$75 K $40- 75K <$40KWAAH Reading programs and organized activities 111111t 1111111111 Free access to diverse and current books 22t 23t21t4t2t 2 25263 Help in finding and assessing information and resources 332t4t 1t23t2t35t2t 44t3t52t Adult reading and literacy programs 42t333t 3 5t2t5t2t33t4t3t44 Access to the Internet 5t464t3t 44t35t33t4 4t5t2t1t Help with homework 5t5562562 44t3t5t62431t Computer access, training and support 5t6454t45545t4t45t53 2t Health information 678t75776t7 7578 676 Job preparation and placement 788t9t6896t8 6 8t76t895 Community forums and programs 8979t76886786t69t7787 Financial and business information 9109889 798978t9t89108 The table below ranks each group. Ranks were determined based on the proportion of respondents that said Very Important. The service with the highest proportion of respondents saying it was a very important received a rank of 1, the second largest received a rank of 2, etc. Ranks 1-3 are highlighted. Tied rankings are indicated with a “t”.

26. 26 Across Texas, a majority of voters from every region rate these library services as very important, with reading programs receiving the highest rating in each area Area TotalSoutheastCentralNortheastNorthwestWestSouth Reading programs and organized activities 83818582877985 Free access to diverse and current books 80797681767880 Help in finding and assessing information and resources 7978 79747681 Adult reading and literacy programs 78 7779837180 Access to the Internet 767478 726879 Help with homework 767178 757180 Computer access, training and support 76727677817377 Health information 69646270747275 Job preparation and placement 68636871746571 Community forums and programs 67666169687166 Financial and business information 63605668485667 % Very Important

27. 27 Internet access and homework help appear more important to Central Texans while help with finding information is less important to North-Westerners Area TotalSoutheastCentralNortheastNorthwestWestSouth Reading programs and organized activities 1111111 Free access to diverse and current books 224t2423t Help in finding and assessing information and resources 33t2t3t6t32 Adult reading and literacy programs 43t3 26t3t Access to the Internet 5t42t4t774 Help with homework 5t62t4t56t3t Computer access, training and support 5t54t5345 Health information 68676t56 Job preparation and placement 79566t87 Community forums and programs 877886t9 Financial and business information 91089998 The table below ranks each group. Ranks were determined based on the proportion of respondents that said Very Important. The service with the highest proportion of respondents saying it was a very important received a rank of 1, the second largest received a rank of 2, etc. Ranks 1-3 are highlighted. Tied rankings are indicated with a “t”.

28. www.krcresearch.com School Libraries

29. 29 Key Findings: School Libraries As with public libraries, school libraries also enjoy strong and intense voter support – regardless of parental status or any other demographic or regional variance In fact, Texas voters say school libraries are as important as classroom education and more than eight in ten believe that school libraries make a major contribution to children’s education These patterns are similar across the state, although voters in the Southern and Central regions are slightly more intense in their support of school libraries Overall, women, older and Hispanic voters are the most intensely supportive of school libraries compared to their counterparts School libraries are viewed as essential because they provide opportunities for children to develop reading and research skills and voters see a link between academic success and strong libraries Not surprisingly given the level of positive feelings, Texas voters express overwhelming support for statewide legislation to require access to a school library and professional librarian

30. 30 Q27-32. First, how important are [READ ITEM] to the education process— very important, fairly important, slightly important or not at all important? Texas voters, especially women and older voters, believe school libraries are as important as classroom education itself Total Important 97% 98% 91% 89% 83% 85% Classroom education School Libraries After school programs Theater and arts programs Field trips Athletic programs There is no difference between those with and without kids (89% with kids say school libraries are very important and 91% without kids) Most likely to say School Libraries are very important: Democrats (93%) and Republicans (92%) vs. Independents (86%) Women (92%, particularly college educated women, 95%, vs. 88% men) Those over 45 (92% vs. <45, 88%) Public library users (92% of frequent users and 91% infrequent users vs. those who do not use the library 85%) Very ImportantFairly ImportantSlightly/not at all important

31. 31 Texas voters assert that school libraries are a critical educational element – over 8 in 10 believe they make a major contribution to children’s education Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West 80% 81% 83% 87% 78% 82% % Major Contribution Q33. Do you believe that school libraries make a major contribution, minor contribution or not much of a contribution to children’s education? Overall 82% At least 7 in 10 voters across every demographic, geographic and political sub-group say school libraries make a major contribution to children’s education. Voters in the Southern and Central parts of the state are most intense in their feelings.

32. 32 Thus, not surprisingly, nearly all Texas voters say they would support legislation to require schools to provide libraries and librarians that meet statewide standards Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West 75% 82% 79% 77% 76% % Strongly Support Q41. Currently public schools in Texas are not required to provide students with a school library or librarian. Would you support or oppose legislation that requires public schools to provide students with a school library and librarian that meet statewide standards? FOLLOW-UP: And, would you strongly (support/oppose) this, or somewhat (support/oppose) this? 93% Overall 77%

33. 33 Strong support for school library legislation crosses party affiliation, though Republicans – particularly Republican men – are less intense in their support WomenMen RepublicansIndependentsDemocratsRepublicansIndependentsDemocrats 92%95%96%85%95%96% Q41. Currently public schools in Texas are not required to provide students with a school library or librarian. Would you support or oppose legislation that requires public schools to provide students with a school library and librarian that meet statewide standards? FOLLOW-UP: And, would you strongly (support/oppose) this, or somewhat (support/oppose) this? Strongly supportSomewhat support Strongly oppose Somewhat oppose

34. 34 Although support for legislation is high across the board, women, particularly older and more educated women, are most intensely supportive EducationAge WomenMen WomenMen 97%93% 89%93% College degreeNo degreeCollege degreeNo degree Under 4545+Under 4545+ Q41. Currently public schools in Texas are not required to provide students with a school library or librarian. Would you support or oppose legislation that requires public schools to provide students with a school library and librarian that meet statewide standards? FOLLOW-UP: And, would you strongly (support/oppose) this, or somewhat (support/oppose) this? 94% 90%92% Older Texans are more likely to strongly support this legislation, with Texans over 65 being the most supportive (83% vs. other age groups, under 30, 77%; 30-39, 78%; 40-49, 73%; and 50-64, 78%) Strongly supportSomewhat support Strongly oppose Somewhat oppose

35. 35 Hispanic and frequent library user voters are also particularly intense in their support for school library legislation compared to their cohorts Q41. Currently public schools in Texas are not required to provide students with a school library or librarian. Would you support or oppose legislation that requires public schools to provide students with a school library and librarian that meet statewide standards? FOLLOW-UP: And, would you strongly (support/oppose) this, or somewhat (support/oppose) this? RacePublic Library Use African American White 95% 92% Hispanic 95% 87% Frequent user (at least once every three weeks), less frequent user (use at least a few times a year) and non-users (use once a year or less) How frequently their kids use the library also plays a role in support. Those whose kids use the library are more likely to strongly support legislation (78% frequent users and 77% infrequent users vs. those whose kids do not use the library, 66%) Frequent user Nonuser Infrequent user Strongly supportSomewhat support Strongly oppose Somewhat oppose

36. 36 Which voters are school libraries and librarians biggest fans? Most likely to think school libraries make a “Major Contribution” to children’s education: Most likely to “Strongly Support” legislation that requires public schools to provide students with a school library and librarian that meet statewide standards: Women Women (85%, particularly college education women 88%, vs. 80% men, particularly men under 45 years old, 79%) Women (81%, particularly college education women 84%, vs. 73% men) Library users Those who use the library frequently (88% vs. those who use the library less frequently, 83%, or not at all, 73%) Library users (81% of frequent users and 80% infrequent users vs. those who do not use the library 66%) Those who see the library’s importance Those who feel the public library is important (very important 85% and total important 84% vs. unimportant, 67%) Those who feel the public library is important (very important 82% and total important 79% vs. unimportant, 61%) Those who are satisfied with the public library Those who are satisfied with their public library (extremely/very satisfied 85%, and total satisfied 84% vs. unsatisfied, 64%) Those with kids who use the library Those whose kids use the library frequently (87% vs. those whose kids who use the library not at all, 71%) Democrats Democrats (84% vs. Republicans 70% ) Non-Caucasian Texans Non-Caucasian Texans (81% vs. 75% of Caucasians)

37. 37 Texas voters agree that school libraries are essential to the overall education process because they support reading and research skills Total Agree 98% 99% 98% Q34-40. I am now going to read you a list of statements about public school libraries. For each one, please tell me if you agree or disagree with that statement. Here's the first one: [READ ITEM]? Would you say you strongly agree with this statement, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or do you strongly disagree? School libraries are important because they give every child the opportunity to read and learn. School libraries are an essential part of the education experience. School libraries are important because they help teach children research skills they will need all their lives. Top tier statements

38. 38 Texans also agree that school libraries are critical to student achievement and strong school libraries produce students with better problem solving and job skills, although with less intensity Total Agree 97% 94% Q34-40. I am now going to read you a list of statements about public school libraries. For each one, please tell me if you agree or disagree with that statement. Here's the first one: [READ ITEM]? Would you say you strongly agree with this statement, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or do you strongly disagree? School libraries are important because they help students do better in school. Professional school librarians are critical to student achievement. School libraries serve as another classroom for students. Students from schools with strong libraries have better problem- solving and job skills. 93% 89% Second tier statements

39. 39 School libraries give every child the opportunity to read and learn was rated highest across all demographic groups GenderPartyCollegeParentsAgeIncomeRace Abbreviated item TotalMenWomenRepDemIndepDegree No degree Kids No kids <4545+>$75 $40- 75K <$40KWAAH Libraries give every child the opportunity to read and learn. 878193879086898687 849086 87 8687 An essential part of the education experience. 84798984878388828584828784 85848185 Libraries help teach children research skills they will need all their lives. 84818681878485838483808783 85838286 Libraries help students do better in school. 777481748381767877 748073778177 79 Professional school librarians are critical to student achievement. 7168736873 71 67747271 6874 School libraries serve as another classroom for students. 7069716772797170687168726770746972 Students from schools with strong libraries have better problem- solving and job skills. 63606659666858665865616553666862 67 % Strongly agree

40. 40 Teaching children research skills garnered the strongest agreement in the Western side of the state Area Abbreviated item TotalSoutheastCentralNortheastNorthwestWestSouth Libraries give every child the opportunity to read and learn. 8788 87868188 An essential part of the education experience. 84 8584808187 Libraries help teach children research skills they will need all their lives. 84 83819185 Libraries help students do better in school. 7776 75707784 Professional school librarians are critical to student achievement. 71 6870657173 School libraries serve as another classroom for students. 70677768 7874 Students from schools with strong libraries have better problem-solving and job skills. 635862645469 % Strongly agree

41. www.krcresearch.com Library Funding

42. 42 Key Findings: Library Funding Not only do Texas voters believe public libraries are a good value for the tax dollar, but they strongly feel that library funding should be increased – even in these turbulent economic times At least 7 in 10 voters across every demographic, geographic, or political group support increasing funding for both school and public libraries As we have seen previously, women, Democrats and those who use their public library are most supportive of increasing funding Not only are voters supportive of funding increases, but the vast majority are opposed to funding cuts for school and public libraries Texans, especially parents and frequent library users, are most concerned that funding cuts would make fewer books and resources available

43. 43 Q42. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the public library in your community? Libraries are so important to Texas voters that strong majorities support increasing public funding for both public and school libraries, even in these tough economic times. Support is higher than we saw nationally in 2006 81% Total Supportive of increasing funding Q45. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the school libraries in your community? 8% Total Not Supportive 82% Total Supportive of increasing funding 7% Total Not Supportive Average Rating 7.82 8.10 At least seven in ten voters across every demographic, geographic and political segment support increased funding for both public and school libraries. 2006 ALA 68% Supportive

44. 44 Q42. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the public library in your community? Support for increasing both public and school funding is high statewide – with Western, Southern, and Eastern parts of the state being most supportive Q45. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the school libraries in your community? Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West 61% Very 81% Total 63% Very 81% Total 63% Very 76% Total 59% Very 83% Total 63% Very 79% Total 64% Very 81% Total Overall 62% Very 81% Total Public Library FundingSchool Library Funding Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West 65% Very 82% Total 72% Very 84% Total 61 % Very 77% Total 77% Very 87% Total 68% Very 81% Total 71% Very 82% Total Overall 69% Very 82% Total % Very supportive of increasing funding (ratings 8-10) % Total supportive of increasing funding (rating 6-10)

45. 45 Q42. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the public library in your community? As we see in other areas, Democrats overall are more intensely supportive of increasing both public and school funding – although support is strong across affiliation Q45. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the school libraries in your community? Republicans Independents Democrats Average Rating 7.37 7.58 8.43 8.78 7.77 7.97 Total supportive 76% 79% 88% 90% 81% 80%

46. 46 Q42. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the public library in your community? Also in keeping with overall trends, support for increasing funding is linked to voter’s relationship with their public library, but even majorities of non-library users support increased funding Q45. On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is “not at all supportive” and a 10 is “very supportive,” how supportive are you personally of increasing public funding for the school libraries in your community? Frequent Public Library Users Non users Infrequent users 8.41 8.47 7.84 8.19 6.68 7.28 Frequent user (at least once every three weeks), less frequent user (use at least a few times a year) and non-users (use once a year or less) Average Rating Total supportive 89% 87% 84% 87% 60% 67%

47. 47 Who is most supportive of increasing funding? For Public Libraries % supportive (ratings 6-10) For School Libraries % supportive (ratings 6-10) Women Women (83% vs. 78% men)Women (86% vs. 79% men) Non-Caucasian Texans Non-Caucasian Texans (84% vs. 78% of Caucasians)Non-Caucasian Texans (88% vs. 79% of Caucasians) Democrats Democrats (88% vs. Independents, 81%, and Republicans 76% ) Democrats (90% vs. Independents, 80%, and Republicans 79% ) Those making less than $50K a year Those making less than $50K year (84% vs. those who make $50K+ 78%) Those making less than $50K year (86% vs. those who make $50K+ 80%) Library users Library users (89% of frequent users and 84% infrequent users vs. those who do not use the library 60%) Library users (87% of frequent users and 87% infrequent users vs. those who do not use the library 67%) Those with kids who use the library Those whose kids use the library frequently (87% vs. those whose kids who use the library less frequently, 82%, or not at all, 71%) Younger Texans Those under 30 (87% vs. those 30-45, 78% and those 45+, 81%)

48. 48 Q43. How much would it bother you personally if funding for the public library in your community was cut—a great deal, some, a little, or not at all? Texas voters absolutely do not want library funding cut – a large majority say cuts would personally bother them Q46. How much would it bother you personally if funding for school libraries in your community was cut—a great deal, some, a little, or not at all? 86%88%

49. 49 Q44. If the funding was cut for the public library in your community, which one of the following outcomes would concern you the MOST? If funding were cut, Texans’ biggest concern would be the restricted access to books and recourses – which was rated as one of the most important aspects of libraries Q47. If the funding was cut for the school libraries in your community, which one of the following outcomes would concern you the MOST? Fewer books and resources would be available (School) Library programs and activities would be cut (School) Libraries would be open fewer hours Professional (school) library staff would be reduced None of the above (VOL) Parents are particularly concerned that fewer books and resources would be available at public (45% vs. nonparents 40%) and school libraries (52% vs. nonparents 45%) Library users are slightly more concerned about fewer books and resources being available (43% frequent users and 44% infrequent users vs. 36% nonusers), but it was the item both groups would be most concerned about.

50. www.krcresearch.com Respondent Profile

51. 51 Demographics Gender Male48% Female52% Age 18 to 248% 25 to 3419% 35 to 4422% 45 to 5422% 55 to 6416% 65 to 748% 75+6% Regardless of how you plan to vote, do you consider yourself a Republican, Democrat or something else? Republican34% Democrat34% Independent/other24% Conduct Interview in English or Spanish? English94% Spanish6% Are you a parent or guardian of any children under age 18 living in your household? Yes33% No67% Which of the following age groups does/do your child(ren) fall into? (N=401) Under age 325% Age 3 to 631% Age 7 to 1137% Age 12 to 1746% Which, of the following broad categories includes your total annual household income before income? Under $20,00012% Between $20K - $30K12% Between $30K - $40K13% Between $40K - $50K11% Between $50K - $75K17% Between $75K – $100K11% Between $100K - $150K8% $150K or more4%

52. 52 Demographics How often do you typically visit or use the services of your public library? Once a week19% Once every two to three weeks18% Once a month16% Once every other month7% A few times a year19% Once a year of less8% Not at all13% What was the last grade of school you completed? No high school3% Some high school5% Completed high school25% Vocational or trade school3% Some university/college27% Completed university/college24% Postgraduate degree12% How often do(es) your child(ren) usually visit or use the services of your public library? (N=401) Once a week31% Once every two to three weeks20% Once a month15% Once every other month5% A few times a year15% Once a year of less5% Not at all9% Which of the following categories describes your race or ethnicity? White59% Hispanic23% Black or African American13% Other3%

53. 53 Demographics Regions Southeast24% Central Texas10% Northeast33% Northwest5% West6% South22% Area Urban57% Suburban34% Rural9%

54. 54 Area Groupings CentralNortheastNorthwestSouthSoutheastWest 10%33%5%22%24%6% BastropAndersonHuntArcherFloydMooreAransasKerrAustinMontgomeryAndrewsMartin BellAngelinaJackArmstrongFoardMotleyAtascosaKinneyBrazoriaNewtonBrewsterMcculloch BlancoBosqueJohnsonBaileyGainesNolanBanderaKlebergCalhounOrangeCokeMenard BrazosBowieKaufmanBaylorGarzaOchiltreeBeeLasalleChambersPolkConchoMidland BurlesonCampLamarBordenGrayOldhamBexarLavacaColoradoSan JacintoCranePecos BurnetCassMarionBriscoeHaleParmerBrooksLive oakFort bendTrinityCrockettPresidio CaldwellCherokeeMorrisBrownHallPotterCameronMaverickGalvestonTylerCulbersonReagan CoryellCollinNacogdochesCallahanHansfordRandallComalMcmullenGrimesVictoriaEctorReeves FallsComancheNavarroCarsonHardemanRobertsDewittMedinaHardinWalkerEl PasoSchleicher Fayette countyCookePalo pintoCastroHartleyRunnelsDimmitNuecesHarrisWallerGlasscockSterling GillespieDallasPanolaChildressHaskellScurryDuvalRealJacksonWashingtonHowardSutton HaysDeltaParkerClayHemphillShackelfordEdwardsRefugioJasperWhartonHudspethTerrell LampasasDentonRainsCochranHockleyShermanFrioSan PatricioJeffersonIrionTom green LeeEllisRed riverColemanHutchinsonStephensGoliadStarrLibertyJeff DavisUpton LeonErathRockwallCollingsworthJonesStonewallGonzalesUvaldeMatagordaKimbleWard LimestoneFanninRuskCottleKentSwisherGuadalupeVal VerdeLovingWinkler LlanoFranklinSabineCrosbyKingTaylorHidalgoWebb MadisonFreestoneSan AugustineDallamKnoxTerryJim HoggWillacy MasonGraysonShelbyDawsonLambThrockmortonJim wellsWilson MclennanGreggSmithDeaf smithLipscombWheelerKarnesZapata MilamHamiltonSomervellDickensLubbockWichitaKendallZavala MillsHarrisonTarrantDonleyLynnWilbargerKenedy RobertsonHendersonTitusEastlandMitchellYoakum San SabaHillUpshurFisherMontagueYoung TravisHoodVan Zandt WilliamsonHopkinsWise HoustonWood Southeast South Central Northeast Northwest West

55. www.krcresearch.com For more information: Victoria Sneed Executive Vice President 202.585.2814 vsneed@krcresearch.com Tanya Feinstein Director 202.585.2138 tfeinstein@krcresearch.com KRC Research 700 13th Street NW Washington, DC 20005 +1 202 628 1118