TS ISO 2789

TS ISO 2789 is the standard that sets an international framework for collecting and reporting statistics in the library and information services field. It focuses on making library performance, usage and service scope measurable in a way that can be compared consistently across institutions and countries.

Arranging statistics for international reporting

The standard specifies rules for statistics used for international reporting in libraries and information services. In general technical terms, this means shared definitions for measures such as user numbers, collection size, circulation, access and service activity, so that data are gathered and interpreted in the same way. That common structure improves consistency not only within a single institution, but also across national and international comparisons.

Management indicators and good practice

The standard also aims to promote conformity between countries for statistical measures that are widely used by library managers, even when those measures do not qualify for international reporting. It supports good practice in statistical use for managing library and information services. In practical terms, that helps libraries interpret operational data more meaningfully for planning, service evaluation and resource allocation. Statistics in this sector are not just numbers; they are management tools for understanding service reach and usage patterns.

• Rules for collecting and reporting statistics for international reporting
• Harmonised statistical definitions across countries
• Consistency for measures commonly used by library managers
• Support for good practice in managing library and information services