Imagine a world where the most popular books are those that keep us captivated with thrill and mystery—well, in Brisbane in 2025, that’s exactly what happened. Despite over 5.9 million physical items being borrowed from libraries run by Australia’s largest local government, it was a crime fiction novel that topped the charts, becoming the year’s most checked-out book. But here’s where it gets controversial: does this suggest that our collective interests lean more towards suspense and intrigue amid a changing world?
In addition to novels, residents of Brisbane frequently borrowed cookbooks, beloved children’s classics, and series aimed at young adults, according to data from the Brisbane City Council. The city’s libraries also saw a remarkable buzz of activity, with 5.3 million people walking through their doors during 2025. Beyond physical books, digital formats remained popular, with 2.1 million downloads of e-books and audiobooks—the modern reader’s convenience.
Across Australia, recent reports show that visits to libraries are on the rise, with a 10 percent increase in in-person attendance. Heather Robinson from Flinders University highlights that this increase is largely driven by economic pressures, such as the rising cost of living. Many people see libraries not just as sources of books but as vital spaces for social connection and access to cultural activities. Robinson points out that borrowing DVDs, magazines, newspapers, and other media still forms an integral part of how communities engage with their libraries.
According to the latest statistical data, the average Australian borrowed about 6.5 items in 2023-24—remarkably, the highest in five years. Liz Bradtke from the Australian Library and Information Association emphasizes that community interest remains strong nationwide. She notes an ongoing national effort to elevate reading and literacy levels, aspiring to transform Australia into a truly reading-oriented nation.
So, what exactly were the top picks for the year? The most borrowed book across Brisbane’s libraries in 2025 was Richard Osman’s crime novel We Solve Murders, checked out 2,306 times. Here’s a closer look at the top five loved titles across different categories:
Adult Fiction
- We Solve Murders — Richard Osman
- In Too Deep — Lee Child
- Here One Moment — Liane Moriarty
- Lola in the Mirror — Trent Dalton
- Nightshade — Michael Connelly
Non-Fiction
- The Let Them Theory — Mel Robbins
- Wifedom — Anna Funder
- The Anxious Generation — Jonathan Haidt
- RecipeTin Eats Tonight — Nagi Maehashi
- Memorial Days — Geraldine Brooks
Junior Fiction Series
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid — Jeff Kinney
- Adventures Unlimited — Andy Griffiths
- Cat Kid Comic Club — Dav Pilkey
- WeirDo — Anh Do
- Wings of Fire — Tui T Sutherland
Young Adult Series
- The Hunger Games — Suzanne Collins
- A Court of Thorns and Roses — Sarah J Maas
- The Summer I Turned Pretty — Jenny Han
- A Good Girl's Guide to Murder — Holly Jackson
- Powerless Trilogy — Lauren Roberts
Bradtke shares that it’s no surprise to see such high engagement levels. In 2023-24, libraries across Australia welcomed more than 88 million visitors in person. She underlines that libraries are constantly evolving to serve their communities better, especially amid economic challenges. Their collections, programs, and spaces are carefully curated to reflect the diverse needs, interests, and values of local populations.
Even as the pandemic caused an initial dip in attendance, the latest data indicates a robust recovery—libraries lent out 174 million items in 2023-24, a significant 23 percent jump from pre-pandemic figures. This rebound underscores a universal truth: Australians deeply cherish their local libraries and the myriad benefits they provide.
Dr. Robinson highlights the crucial role libraries continue to play as bridges to trusted sources of information. Today’s libraries are not just about books—they are safe, inclusive spaces where community members can access a neutral environment without pressure or commercial influence. You don’t have to buy anything or justify your presence—your membership alone makes you part of a vibrant, supportive community.
What do you think about the rising popularity of libraries and their changing roles? Are they evolving fast enough to keep up with modern needs, or are they still the quiet, old-fashioned spaces many imagine? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
