Latest statistics show mixed fortunes for libraries While visits to public libraries increased by over three million last year, statistics released today show that the number of active borrowers and the number of books issued continue to fall. Figures from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy showed that in 2004/05, visits to public libraries rose for the third year running, with the number of visits up by a total of 17m since 2001/02.
However, the fact that the number of books borrowed is on the decline appears to suggest that visitors are using their local libraries for research or for multimedia facilities rather than for their traditional purpose of book lending. Local authorities must ensure that their libraries provide the quality of services people need and expect.
