Library systems report double-digit jumps in usage as consumer spending tightens

Izzy Rivera, a resident of Topeka, Kan., reduced her personal book purchases to manage her savings for law school. She now relies on the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library for physical and digital materials. In one instance, she purchased 15 used books for approximately $20 at a local sale. Rivera also utilizes the library’s free access to the New York Times and the streaming service Kanopy. She noted that the library provides a space where she is not expected to spend money, unlike a coffee shop.

Librarians and patrons across the United States report increased usage of public library resources as economic conditions tighten. A Pew Research Center survey released in mid-October found that 44% of Americans struggled to afford at least one basic necessity in the past year. Another 70% of adults stated they had cut back on optional expenses, such as streaming subscriptions. Data from large public library systems confirms a rise in cardholder membership, circulation, and event attendance.

Jeremy Reeder, director of the Maricopa County Library District in Arizona, said many patrons are switching from paid services like Audible to free library alternatives. He stated, "People start off with Audible and then a friend tells them, 'Why are you paying for that? You can get that at the library if you're a smidgen bit patient.'" Maria McCauley, president of the American Library Association, added that awareness of free offerings is driving the trend. She said, "They are especially popular right now, I think, because people are aware that everything that we provide is free or very low cost."

Financial data from major library systems shows distinct growth patterns. The Los Angeles Public Library reported a 37% increase in makerspace usage and more than a 20% rise in digital circulation and visits between the last two fiscal years. The Chicago Public Library saw in-person visits, adult card applications, and Wi-Fi sessions jump by more than 11% year-over-year from January through July. The Maricopa County Library District recorded a 34% increase in Kanopy use and a 78% increase in Hoopla use over the past three years.

Specific local trends vary. The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library logged an 8.1% increase in digital media checkouts last year, though physical circulation declined. The system also saw a surge in requests for tech support, including help with online job applications. OverDrive, the parent company of Kanopy, reported a 41% spike in streaming service users last year. Historical analysis by the American Library Association indicates that library circulation increased during the 2001 recession and the Great Recession.

The rise in usage coincides with federal funding challenges. The Trump administration recommended zeroing out funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services in its April budget proposal for the current fiscal year. McCauley said libraries rely on a mix of federal, state, and local funding. She added, "Every year, libraries have to make a case for their funding, and especially when it's uncertain, it can be harder to get all the resources that we need." The agency previously faced an attempt to cancel grants, which was blocked by a lawsuit from 21 states.

Libraries are expanding their role beyond book lending to address community needs. A survey found that 56% of libraries offered food security support services last year. Many institutions provide a "library of things" that includes Wi-Fi hotspots, induction cooktops, and camping gear. At the Free Library of Philadelphia, a biweekly crafting event provides sewing machines and materials at no cost. Chloe deBeus, an attendee, said the free access helps her determine if she enjoys a hobby before making a large purchase. Nathaniel Muns, a recent college graduate, uses the branch's music department to practice keyboard since he has not yet replaced his own instrument.