The San Mateo Public Library in 1912 kept detailed statistics on the circulation of their collection. They were categorized by subject and type, which would have been a time consuming endeavor without the use of computers. There was a total of 3,126 non fiction volumes checked out. Adult fiction was the most popular item, with 12,610 volumes. Juvenile fiction was also more popular than nonfiction (3,598 vs. 549). Total circulation of all items was 22,046. Trends have not changed over time, since fiction is still more popular than nonfiction.
There were a total number of 899 library cards, according to the statistics. Other figures were for new cards issued, as well as those that had expired. The librarian and her assistant must have been very busy with assisting patrons and keeping such detailed records.
For such a small library they did not do a bad job in acquiring new material. They were able to purchase 461 new books and 65 new books were donated.
One final statistic provided was a breakdown of the library's contents. Again, this was listed by category. The total number of circulating volumes was 5,874.
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