Community needs analysis is the foundation of library planning, whether for day to day operations or a major library expansion. To plan and spend resources wisely, we need to know all we can about our users (and non-users!). Up-to-date statistics – and the “people” stories that back up the numbers – are our best advocacy tools.

Community Analysis Manuals

• Community Analysis for Libraries and Librarians
• The Community Analysis Methods and Evaluative Options (CAMEO) Handbook

Resources for South Carolina Demographics

• SC Association of Counties
• SC Office of Research & Statistical Services including SC Statistical Abstracts
• SC State Library Statistics