Mercer County Library System Recognized for Excellence Again

Mercer County’s library system- which includes the Lawrence Branch- has again been recognized for excellence. Library Journal, a monthly publication for library professionals, recently released its 2013 ratings for the nation’s public libraries and ranked the Mercer County Library System among the nation's best libraries for the sixth consecutive year.

The publication, called “America’s Star Libraries,” rated 7,570 public libraries using a variety of data, and only 263 received a rating of five, four or three stars. The Mercer County Library System earned a five-star rating, maintaining the rating it earned for the first time in 2008, then again in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.

The Mercer County Library System was one of just three libraries in New Jersey to receive this top honor, and placed sixth out of 34 libraries nationwide in its budget category.

“I’m very pleased that our comprehensive library system in Mercer County is being recognized with this honor for the sixth year in a row,” said Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes. “Our library system works hard to provide the best service and the most diverse programs to our residents and their families.”

The criteria for ranking the libraries were measures that indicate public service — per capita circulation, visits, program attendance and public Internet use. The Mercer County Library System received the highest score possible in each of these categories.

“This designation is truly an acknowledgement of how well we meet and exceed the needs of our communities, and is a testament to all of our hard work, across every branch and department throughout the System,” said Library Director Ellen Brown.