Americans flock to libraries

As times get financially tougher in the United States libraries are experiencing increased circulation figures. According to a press release from the American Library Association libraries have clocked up a 10% increase in both items borrowed and library visits since the last economic downturn in 2001.

ALA President Jim Rettig said, “During tough economic times, people turn to libraries for their incredible array of free resources, from computers to books, DVDs and CDs, for help with a job hunt or health information. The average annual cost to the taxpayer for access to this wide range of resources is about $31, the cost of one hardcover book. In good times or bad, libraries are a great value!”