The library conducted a survey earlier this year to learn about reading trends in our community in order to anticipate changing needs and better provide outstanding information, resources, and programs.
We were overwhelmed by the response. After analyzing over 500 survey submissions and over 10,000 data points (thank you to everyone who participated) we would like to share with you what we've discovered.
Most popular leisure activity: browsing the internet, tied with reading...and more than watching TV!
What most motivates our community to read is good writing!
After suggestions from friends & family, browsing the library is the second most likely way to decide what books to read.
After mystery, historical fiction is the second-most popular genre (sci-fi and travel were the least popular).
Most still prefer physical books to e-books.
Respondents are more than 2x as likely to borrow from the library than purchase books.
58% of those who listen to audiobooks download from the library.
14% of respondents participate in a book club.
75% want more recommendations from the Library.
Nearly half of parents who responded have children under the age of 5.
52% of kids read more than 2 hours a week for fun...54% of those read more than 4 hours a week!
82% of kids under 9 like to be read to...49% age 9 to 12 still enjoy being be read to!
67% of parents rely on libraries for children's book recommendations.
90% of children age 9-12 use library materials to complete homework assignments.
82% of parents find what they are looking for when they visit the library (15% sometimes can).
Early reader books & chapter books were the most requested additions to the library (board books and graphic novels were the least requested).
84% of kids attend library programs.
91% of kids who attend library programs check out books from the library, too.
72% of kids age 5-12 have their very own library card.