SOURCE
National Center for Educational Statistics

DEFINITION
This is one type of single outlet library (SO) or the library which is the operational center of a multiple-outlet library (MO or MA). Usually all processing is centralized here and the principal collections are housed here. Synonymous with main library.

Note: Each public library system (administrative entity) may report either no central library or one central library. No administrative entity may report more than one central library. Where two or more libraries are considered "centrals" for state or local purposes, one central library and one or more branch libraries is reported in the survey. The library identified as the central library is the library with the largest collection; all others are reported as branches. Where there are several co-equal outlets and no principal collection, all such outlets are reported as branches, not central libraries.

DEFINITION: This is one type of single outlet library (SO) or the library which is the operational center of a multiple-outlet library (MO or MA). Usually all processing is centralized here and the principal collections are housed here. Synonymous with main library.

Note: Each public library system (administrative entity) may report either no central library or one central library. No administrative entity may report more than one central library. Where two or more libraries are considered "centrals" for state or local purposes, one central library and one or more branch libraries is reported in the survey. The library identified as the central library is the library with the largest collection; all others are reported as branches. Where there are several co-equal outlets and no principal collection, all such outlets are reported as branches, not central libraries.

SOURCE: National Center for Educational Statistics