For every $100 invested into local libraries a return of $230 is received by the public, a recent Queensland library report has found.

The Queensland Library Dividend Report found $207 million invested into local libraries by state and local governments over a 12 month period resulted in $476.1 million worth of value to the community.

The State Library of Queensland. Credit:State Library of Queensland

SGS Economics and Planning conducted the research using numerous methods to calculate the value of Queensland libraries to the community, rather than a market value.

SGS consultant Mark Donaldson said economic, social and environmental costs and benefits were considered in creating the cost benefit ratio of 2.3 for Queensland libraries.