Statistics & Information

• In 2009, book borrowing increased by 1.3%, the first increase in 20 years.
• 34 million people a year visit public libraries in the UK.
• There are more than 4500 public libraries in the UK (including mobile libraries).
• Libraries are free.
• More than 34 million people, 60 per cent of the UK population, have a library card.
• Every library provides access to the internet, which in most libraries is free of charge.
• 35% of the population visits public libraries at least once a month.
• There are more than 92 million books in UK public libraries.
• Libraries provide over 60 million hours a year of high speed internet access.
• Library staff answers 60 million enquiries a year.
• Ask a Librarian 24 hours a day online.
• More people visit public libraries in the UK than go to football matches, theatres or cinemas, put together.
• Libraries bridge the digital divide and are, for many people, to only point of access to online knowledge resources. 
• Libraries support formal and informal learning for people of all ages.
• Libraries support businesses and help to create and sustain a vibrant economy.