Queens Takes the Lead in Book Borrowing

Queens has officially become the most book-loving borough in New York City.

The library system here saw the largest increase in book checkouts compared to last year. In fact, Queens Public Library (QPL) reported a staggering 11 million loans of books, magazines, and films in 2025, with an impressive 24% increase from 8.7 million in 2024.

This figure doesn’t even account for other services like social programs, educational materials, or computer usage, which also reached record levels at QPL last year.

As Rishi de Bourbon, a spokesperson for Queens’ library system, pointed out, “While book borrowing is a core part of what we do, it’s just one aspect.” He continued, noting that the rise in library card registrations and the use of digital resources reflects a heightened interest in these services throughout the city. Even if people don’t borrow traditional materials, their library cards still provide access to a plethora of resources that can foster connections and opportunities in the community.

This year, QPL also welcomed 114,944 new cardholders, which is a 7% increase over last year. However, even with a solid membership base of 1.6 million, it still lags behind the other major library systems in New York City, according to the mayor’s management report.

The New York Public Library (NYPL), which has 92 locations across the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, experienced a slight drop in circulation speed this year. Nonetheless, they managed to attract 447,636 new members, raising their total to 2,375,000—a 23% increase from the previous year.

Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) saw a modest 2% growth in circulation, with patrons checking out around 9.7 million books. Interestingly, this figure is significantly lower than that of QPL, despite BPL’s larger membership of 1,728,000, with about 202,800 participating—up 13% from last year.

Both the New York and Brooklyn libraries are appealing to readers through cultural initiatives, which include discounts on social programs and access to various facilities. Library cards, for instance, not only grant free access to WiFi and computers but also offer numerous programs such as storytime for children, job assistance, skills training, ESOL classes, and GED preparation.

All locations of the New York Public Library, covering the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, provided cooling centers during the summer heatwaves, along with some branches in Brooklyn and Queens.

Moreover, library cards in these three systems act as cultural gateways, allowing members to visit over 100 museums, theaters, gardens, and more at no cost.

Connor Goodwin, a spokesperson for NYPL, commented on the increasing popularity of library cards: “I’m not surprised more New Yorkers are signing up. Libraries are increasingly seen as valuable community resources and places for exploration.” He emphasized that this uptick in diverse library usage—like computer access, branch visits, and reference help—reflects a broader trend that they aim to sustain, especially following a complete budget restoration that will facilitate opening newly renovated branches and enhancing collections.