As 2023 draws to an end, public libraries across the US have released their compilations of the most borrowed books of the year. From Topeka to Houston and Chicago, the reading trends of 2023 have showcased a diverse range of literary choices, from suspenseful thrillers to captivating dramas. At the top of the list in the print category, we find C.J. Box’s mystery thriller “Storm Watch,” which gripped readers with its suspenseful narrative. The ebook category was dominated by “Simply Lies” by David Baldacci, while in Chicago, residents were engrossed in popular book and audiobook rentals.
The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library in Kansas reported that almost every top 10 print book fell into the suspenseful thriller category, underscoring readers’ fascination with this genre. Meanwhile, the Houston Public Library laid out its most checked-out books across various demographics, including adults, teenagers, and children, covering a range of topics such as romance, mystery, and thrillers. “Lessons in Chemistry” emerged as the most borrowed book of the year, with its intriguing storyline and acknowledgment in the 2022 Goodreads Choice Awards.
Audiobooks gained significant traction in 2023, with readers opting for the hands-free listening option to consume books. According to the Chicago Public Library, more than 7 million resources were checked out in 2023, a number anticipated to increase with the opening of four additional branches in 2024. The library system has also embraced changes in the way resources are accessed, reflecting the evolving needs of readers. As the Chicago Public Library celebrates its 150th anniversary, it looks towards the future, promising more than just books for free access to locals.
The popularity of these books and reading trends provide insight into the literary interests and preferences that shaped 2023. The blend of suspense, mystery, romance, and audiobooks indicates that readers are drawn to diverse genres and formats, ensuring the continued vibrancy of the reading community across the country.
