Number of Library Materials Checked Out Per Person (By US State)

Number of Library Materials Checked Out Per Person (By US State)
graph from Axios Cleveland; slow reveal by Anne R. Flick

Type of Graph: choropleth map

Purpose

This slow reveal is designed to support analysis and discussion of both the data and the design choices. The questions in the slide deck invite learners to estimate values, compare values, explore relationships between values, and consider implications.

About This Graph

This visualization is not provided for reuse or redistribution. Readers and educators are encouraged to view the original visualization in its published context.

Data Visualization Source:
Sparber, S. “Library Materials Checked Out Per Person” at Smith, T. and Sparber, S. Ohio Leads the Nation in Library Checkouts. Available online: https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/09/18/ohio-leads-library-checkouts-books-ebooks (accessed on September 21, 2026).

Data Sources:
Institute of Museum and Library Services. Public Library Survey (PLS) Tables. Available online: https://www.imls.gov/pls-benchmarking-tables (accessed on September 21, 2026).

In The Classroom

There are many different mathematical connections that can be made to this data and data visualization.

Potential Math Content: scale, decimals, estimation, choropleth map, reading a legend, rage, maximum, minimum, comparing to a benchmark, outliers, estimation, missing data, sampling, correlation vs causation, data collection methodology

Potential Content Connections: US geography, public services, civics, literacy, books