What does it mean to have equal access to public learning spaces in America?

Our project examines how geography, funding, and local infrastructure shape children’s access to public library services. While libraries are meant to be free and open for all, the reality is far more complex—especially for children in underserved communities.

Using data from the 2022 Public Libraries Survey, we compare Mississippi and Massachusetts to explore how location and income levels influence the availability of child-centric programs and materials. Through visualizations and critical analysis, we uncover surprising patterns—for example, some well-funded libraries offer fewer children’s services than expected.

More importantly, our project asks what the data misses: Who gets counted? Who gets left out? And how can public systems better support all children, not just those in well-resourced areas?

We invite you to explore the inequities hidden within public libraries and to imagine what a truly inclusive future for children could look like.