Ela Library Rated One of the Best in the Nation

One of the nation’s best libraries is in Lake Zurich. The Ela Area Public Library recently accepted this prestigious recognition from Library Journal’s Index of Public Library Service. The publication awarded Ela Library with a 5-Star Rating, the nation’s highest honor.

The national rating was developed by Library Journal and compares U.S. public libraries on the quantities of services they deliver based on per capita statistics for library visits, number of items borrowed, program attendance and public Internet use. The index gives libraries an indication of how they stack up with their peers. Ela Library was rated in the category of operating expenditures of over $5 million but less than $10 million. In its category, 10 libraries nationwide were given a 5-Star Rating and only three are located in Illinois. Within its peer group, Ela Library received the highest score in Illinois, and the 4th highest score nationally. The rating is a remarkable honor for staff, the Library’s Board of Trustees and the community.

“This 5-Star Rating is a terrific recognition that we are providing a level of service to the community that far exceeds the norm,” said Matt Womack, Ela Library’s Executive Director. “We want to be among the best libraries in the country, and this rating shows that we belong in that conversation.”

More than 7,500 libraries across the country were evaluated, but only 262 received a starred rating. Scores were based on statistics submitted in 2012. This year marks the first time Ela Library has achieved a 5-Star Rating.