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Explanation and Values for Library Use Value Calculator
Updated figures, Feb. 2011
This chart provides background for estimated or average costs for library resources and services.
For example, we used an average between hardcover and paperback prices for adult and childrens books from online retailers to arrive at average prices for those categories. We also relied on the Library and Book Trade Almanac for other print material prices.
While the cost of many library resources has remained flat or decreased slightly since 2009, the cost of magazines and newspapers has increased substantially.
Customization
Some values may vary from area to area. If you would like to supply your own values, please feel free to edit the Library Use Value Calculator and to download the spreadsheet for edits to meet your own local needs.
How to customize and use on your local library web site.
| Item | Estimated Retail Value | Values Explained |
|---|---|---|
| Book Borrowed | $17.00 | Average cost of hardcover for adults |
| Paperback Book Borrowed | $7.00 | Average cost of paperback for adults |
| Children Book Borrowed | $12.00 | Average cost of hardcover for children |
| Audiobooks Borrowed | $10.00 | Average cost to purchase an audio book |
| Interlibrary Loan Requests | $30.00 | Average national cost for loans |
| eBooks/Audiobooks Downloaded | $15.00 | Average cost to download an ebook/audiobook |
| Magazine Borrowed | $5.00 | Average cost to purchase a popular periodical issue |
| Video Borrowed | $5.00 | Average cost to purchase a popular video |
| CDs Borrowed | $9.95 | Average cost to purchase a a CD. |
| Museum Pass Borrowed | $20.00 | Sample museum admission for two |
| Magazine/Newspaper Use in Library | $7.50 | Average monthly cost of a popular magazines/newspapers issue |
| Meeting Room Use per Hour | $50.00 | Estimate |
| Auditorium Use per Hour | $250.00 | Estimate |
| Program/Class Attended - Adult | $10.00 | Estimate |
| Program Attended - Children | $6.00 | Estimate |
| Computer Use per Hour e.g., Internet and MS Word per hour | $12.00 | Sample hourly rate at internet cafes for people using their computers, not their own laptops. |
| Reference Questions Asked | $15.00 | Estimated cost per question |
Based initially on the calculator from Massachusetts Library Association.
