Taking the pulse: Share your voice on the state of libraries

Libraries today are navigating a challenging landscape. AI is reshaping how information is discovered, accessed and understood. Open research scholarship is expanding the boundaries of knowledge sharing, while simultaneously challenging traditional publishing and acquisition models. All of this is unfolding as libraries continue to face persistent budget constraints, staffing shortages and shifting institutional priorities.

With libraries being asked to do more with less — while also reimagining their role in a digital-first, AI-powered world, how do they continue to evolve and meet patron and user needs in a fast-changing landscape?

The answer begins with listening. That’s what the Pulse of the Library survey, run in partnership with Library Journal once again this year, is designed to do.

A Global Snapshot of Library Realities

Now in its third year, the Pulse of the Library survey is a global initiative that captures the voices of library professionals across academic, public and national institutions. It explores how libraries are responding to technological change, what challenges they face and where they see opportunities for growth and impact.

This year’s survey builds on the momentum of previous years, exploring how libraries are integrating AI tools, what their top strategic focuses are and how they are adapting to the evolving needs of their stakeholders. It also gathers demographic insights to ensure a broad representative picture of the global library landscape.

Why Your Voice Matters

The insights gathered via the Pulse of the Library survey will inform a comprehensive report that helps the community understand what’s working, what’s not and what’s next. The report, along with the raw data, are made freely available for librarians, partners, vendors and funders to analyze and use in decision-making. By contributing your perspective, you help ensure that the realities of your library — whether it’s a small community branch or a large academic system — are reflected in the broader conversation.

Take The Survey

The survey is open now and takes only a few minutes to complete. Whether you’re a library director, a systems librarian or a collections specialist, your voice matters. Please take this opportunity to reflect, to share and to contribute to a collective vision for the future of libraries.