Libraries See Surge in Users as Costs Rise

Izzy Rivera in Topeka, Kan., recently spent 20 dollars on 15 used books at a local library sale. As she saves for law school, Rivera relies on the library for physical books, digital copies on the Libby app, and free access to the New York Times and Kanopy streaming. She noted that the library offers a place to go without the expectation to spend money, unlike a coffee shop where a purchase is often implied.

Patrons and librarians report a similar shift in usage habits across the United States. 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. Additionally, 70% of adults reported cutting back on extra expenses, including streaming subscriptions. Jeremy Reeder, director of the Maricopa County Library District, observed that people are abandoning paid services like Audible in favor of free library options once they learn of the availability.

Data from major public library systems confirms this trend. The Los Angeles Public Library reported a 37% growth in makerspace usage between the last two fiscal years, while digital circulation and library visits both rose by more than 20%. In Chicago, in-person visits, adult card applications, and Wi-Fi sessions all increased by over 11% from January through July. The Maricopa County Library District saw Kanopy use grow by 34% and Hoopla use surge by 78% over the past three years.

Local data reflects these national patterns, though with some variation. The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library logged an 8.1% increase in digital media checkouts last year, even as physical circulation declined. The system also reported a surge in requests for tech support, particularly for online job applications. OverDrive, the parent company of Kanopy, reported a 41% increase in streaming users last year.

Libraries are also serving as community resources beyond reading. A survey found that 56% of libraries offered food security support services last year, a period when millions of Americans lost food benefits due to changes in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Many branches now lend out items such as Wi-Fi hotspots, induction cooktops, and camping gear. At the Free Library of Philadelphia, attendees use provided sewing machines and materials for free, while others practice on keyboards in the music department.

Maria McCauley, president of the American Library Association, stated that libraries are popular because they provide free or low-cost services. She emphasized that libraries rely on a mix of federal, state, and local funding to operate. McCauley noted that when funding is uncertain, it becomes harder to secure the necessary resources for expertise, facilities, and programs.

Federal funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services faces ongoing pressure. The Trump administration recommended zeroing out funding for the agency in its April budget proposal for the current fiscal year. Last year, the administration attempted to cancel IMLS grants, prompting a lawsuit from the attorneys general of 21 states. The grants were reinstated, but the agency remains on the White House radar for potential cuts.