For publishers, these figures challenge assumptions about library decline in the digital age.
A Decade-High Milestone
Danish public libraries have achieved their highest borrowing levels in ten years, marking the third consecutive year of growth. Ministry of Culture figures confirm the sector’s sustained upward trajectory, with national loans reaching 32.7 million in 2023 – a record-breaking 8% annual increase.
Physical and Digital Double-Digit Growth
The resurgence spans both traditional and digital formats. Physical item circulation jumped to 23.3 million in 2023, up from 22 million the previous year, while digital loans climbed to 9.4 million. Library visits simultaneously surged to 31.1 million, a testament to the institution’s enduring community relevance.
Children Drive Copenhagen’s Surge
Youth engagement fuels the trend. Copenhagen’s libraries reported a 15% surge in book loans during 2024, with children’s titles accounting for over half of all borrowings. This mirrors national efforts to promote literacy among younger demographics and signals robust demand across age groups.
The View From The Beach
For publishers, these figures challenge assumptions about library decline in the digital age. The data reveals sustained demand for both backlist and new titles, with digital integration complementing rather than cannibalising print circulation. As libraries evolve into hybrid cultural hubs, they present expanding opportunities for discoverability, reader development, and long-tail revenue streams.
This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.
