Australians are returning to their local libraries in record numbers, with new data showing that rising living costs are driving people to seek out free community resources.
The Australian Public Libraries Statistical Report 2023–2024, released by National and State Libraries Australasia (NSLA) and the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA), paints a picture of renewed engagement across the country’s 1,717 library service points. Physical visits, borrowing, and program participation have all surged, confirming libraries’ place as essential community hubs.
The report recorded 88 million in-person visits last year, almost 10 per cent more than the year before. Australians borrowed or accessed 174 million items, including 119 million physical loans and 55 million digital ones—an average of 6.5 items per person. Libraries also delivered 409,000 programs, attended by over 7 million participants, with literacy and lifelong learning sessions attracting the largest audiences.
Digital engagement continues to grow, with electronic materials now making up 28 per cent of total collections and accounting for nearly a third of all loans.
“This report speaks to the value of public library services across the country, and the importance of a local library to its community,” said NSLA Deputy Chair Catherine Clark. “Anyone seeking knowledge, comfort, connection or solitude, can find it – freely available – within their public library.”
ALIA President Jane Cowell said the growing demand showed how vital libraries remain in a period of social and economic pressure. “After the pandemic, we saw Australians return to their libraries in high numbers—and those numbers have only continued to grow,” she said. “With free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned spaces, people are visiting their library to study or work, participate in a range of programs and receive assistance from real people. These points of connection are needed more than ever.”
Despite the rising popularity of library services, the report points to growing financial strain. Total expenditure rose by 6 per cent to $1.385 billion, but inflation-adjusted per capita funding has fallen by 12 per cent over five years. Spending on collections has dropped by 14 per cent in real terms.
“This reduction in funding for libraries comes at a time when local governments are reporting cost-shifting from State and Federal governments to councils,” said ALIA CEO Cathie Warburton. “Public libraries are struggling to keep up with the demand for in-person assistance from people who are navigating online government services. Programs are extremely popular, with digital literacy programs being in high demand.”
The report, based on data from state and territory library authorities, provides a national snapshot of how Australians are using their libraries. It highlights how these spaces continue to evolve—from quiet reading rooms to active learning and support centres—while remaining one of the last truly free and accessible public institutions in the country.
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