There are two sources for national library statistics:
- The Library and Information Statistics Unit (LISU), based at Loughborough University, produces an annual sampler of UK library statistics from all sectors, the Library and Information Statistics Tables. These are available in hardcopy or online, including those from previous years. Visit www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/dis/lisu.
An annual compilation of statistics relating to libraries, LISU Annual Library Statistics, tracks trends across the different sectors. Order via the website, or email lisu@lboro.ac.uk.
- Public Lending Right provides statistics on the most popular books and authors borrowed from public libraries. All reports are available on their website, via the media centre. Visit www.plr.uk.com.
More information on libraries
UK’s most borrowed children’s author: Jacqueline Wilson
The five authors with over 1 million loans:
1. James Patterson
2. Jacqueline Wilson
3. Daisy Meadows
4. Josephine Cox
5. Nora Roberts
UK’s most borrowed book: At Risk by Patricia Cornwell
UK’s most borrowed children’s fiction book: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by JK Rowling
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