Irish libraries saw a 20% jump in the lending of e-books and e-audio books last year, new figures show.
A total of 931,291 e-books and 1,674,191 e-audiobooks were loaned through branches in 2023, up one fifth on 2022.
However, the substantial increase has not dented the lending of traditional print books – combined with audio visual material such as CDs and DVDs, they increased to 14.5 million, a rise of 18%.
The data was released ahead of National Public Libraries Open Day on Saturday, when people are encouraged to visit their local library to explore the range of free services, regardless of whether they are a member.
“We have seen public library users become more familiar with digital resources,” said Dr Stuart Hamilton, head of libraries development at the Local Government Management Agency.
“And the popularity of e-book and e-audio books highlights how Ireland’s 330 public libraries continue to adapt.”
Overall, the popularity of Irish public libraries is increasing, with a 2.6% spike in membership in 2022-23 to 784,618.
Almost half of these members are also members of the BorrowBox service, which provides access to e-books and e-audio books.
Dr Hamilton said the popularity of e-resources demonstrates a growing outreach to those who would not ordinarily consider using a library, including people with intellectual disabilities, literacy issues, job seekers and new arrivals to Ireland.
Dr Stuart Hamilton, head of libraries development at the Local Government Management Agency (Conor McCabe/Mediaconsult/PA)
“E-books, for example, can be suitable for readers with a range of disabilities,” he said.
“Libraries are community settings offering a broad range of free services which allow people connect, access information, receive support and browse and escape.
“National Public Libraries Open Day allows anyone to acquaint themselves with what our libraries offer through free membership.”
Meanwhile, Dublin libraries are reaching out to pre-school children living in homeless accommodation in the city centre.
The move is part of a campaign by Dublin City Council’s Library in the Community programme to assist marginalised and isolated groups.
Ahead of Saturday’s open day, a story time session for pre-schoolers was held at homeless accommodation at Gardiner Street.
It is one of more than 300 events held by the Library in the Community team since last year and which have engaged more than 30,000 people since.
Anna Marie Delaney, chairwoman of the National Libraries Development Committee, said National Public Libraries Open Day will highlight the crucial role of libraries in communities.
“Public libraries are vibrant, inclusive community hubs providing all sorts of events and activities within our villages, towns and cities.
“Diversity of resources and services includes encouraging reading at all levels, improving digital skills and literacy, enabling formal and informal learning and supporting the provision of information and guidance on every topic.”