Cleveland Public Library Makes List of America’s Star Libraries

Cleveland Public Library earned the prestigious Five-Star rating from the Library Journal, the oldest and most respected publication covering library service.

“Cleveland Public Library is honored to receive the coveted Library Journal Five-Star rating. Achieving this national recognition would not be possible without the dedication of our Library staff and the support of our beloved community,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library.  

The Library Journal Index of Public Library Service compares U.S. public libraries on the services it provides to the community. The ratings are based on per capita statistics for Library visits, circulation, program attendance, and public internet and Wi-Fi usage. Cleveland Public Library ranked fifth overall in the 2020 Index based on data collected in 2018 by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Cleveland Public Library has received four or five stars every year since 2009. “The Five-Star rating shows the importance of Cleveland Public Library to the city of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. Our world-class collection, thought-provoking programming, and family-friendly atmosphere are what brings visitors from around the world to Cleveland Public Library, “remarks Thomas, Jr.

The Library Journal has more than 100,000 readers. In 2008, the publication created the rating system to recognize America’s public libraries, improve library data, and promote self-evaluation. Visit Library Journal to read the complete Index of Public Library Service.

Cleveland Public Library is open for drive-up and walk-up services Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. To order your next read, movie, or audio book by mail, call one of our 27 neighborhood branches or visit our online catalog on cpl.org.

Need a book recommendation? Visit ASK CPL on our website to live chat with a librarian.