CSL provides resources for developing library-related policies, activities, and assistance for school, public, academic, and special libraries.

The purpose and key responsibilities of CSL are defined in Colorado Library Law and further refined by goals and strategies set forth in the five-year Library Services and Technology Plan.

[1] CSL and the projects it supports and helps administer for publicly-funded libraries across the state of Colorado are funded in part by the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant funds, which are administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

[2] The Territorial Superintendent of Public Schools was named the Ex Officio Librarian.

[2] In 1929 the State Board of Library Commissioners merged with the Colorado Traveling Library Commission which had been established by the local State Federation of Women's Clubs in 1903.