Number of people joining Surrey libraries has doubled since coronavirus lockdown

The number of people joining Surrey libraries has doubled since library buildings closed as part of the coronavirus lockdown, according to the latest figures from Surrey County Council.

Despite library buildings closing on 20 March, an extra 506 people have joined – double the average joining rate of 260. On top of this, over 4,000 online books, comics and magazines were downloaded last month – ten times the average number of downloads a month. Proving that despite buildings being closed, the county’s libraries are still very much open.

Thousands of children across the county have been enjoying Digital Rhymetime sessions on Facebook, with over 7,000 views for the first few sessions and older residents will soon be able to enjoy online reading clubs.

To make the most of their ‘libraries from home’, Surrey residents can find lots of activities and resources for both children and young people, as well as adults on the website: www.surreycc.gov.uk/libraries. Follow Surrey Libraries on Twitter @surreylibraries and Facebook @surreylibrariesUK to keep up to date with new content.

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Notes to editors

Surrey Libraries: Since we closed at 5pm 20th March 2020:

1. We have seen an increase in new library membership of 94.6% over and above what we would usually anticipate for the period 23 March to 6 April.  An extra 506 people have joined the library between 23 March and 6 April.  The average for an 11day period is usually around 260.
2. Digital Rhymetime sessions had 7,200 hits for the first 2 sessions
3. By 31st March eBooks, eComics and eMagazines jumped from an average 400 downloads a month to 4,238 in March.