National public library statistical systems and management: a comparison between the United States and the People’s Republic of China

Through an analytical and comparative study, examines the development and current status of the USA’s and China’s national library statistical systems, their natural functions and key system characteristics, usability of performance measures, and each system’s strengths and shortcomings. A distinction is made between government‐centred and profession‐centred systems. Identifies four factors which influence the systems’ characteristics. By finding commonalities and differences between the two statistical systems, provides library professionals, governmental administrators, and educators with the opportunity to learn from each other’s practices and experiences, to conduct further investigations into the purpose and characteristics of the statistical systems, and ultimately, to improve nationwide library planning and evaluation in their own country.