Public Libraries of New Zealand Release 2012 Statistics, Ebook Downloads Increase by 700%

Wow, quite a day for public library numbers. First, Pew Internet survey findings and then IMLS with a new report.
Now, let’s move to New Zealand.
From a PLNZ News Release:

New Zealanders are increasingly using digital library services such as computer and Wi-Fi internet access, EBooks, and audio books, while use of traditional services remains high. Recently released annual statistics on public library usage during 2011 and 2012 reveal this shift towards online services.
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The number of library internet users increased from 5.7 million in 2011 to 6.7 million in 2012, and nearly 18.5 million Wi-Fi sessions were recorded last year. Aotearoa People’s Network Kaharoa (APNK) provides a Wi-Fi service in a number of public libraries with an average of 2,400 Wi-Fi sessions at APNK hotspots per day. The total data traffic is equivalent to the data allowance of over 5,200 of Telecom’s “Everyday” broadband packages.
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Other striking trends in the statistics were dramatic increases in the uptake of digital items and services. While 17,116 EBooks were downloaded in 2011, that figure increased by over 700% to 138,865 in 2012, and the number of audio books downloaded went up by over 40% last year to 79,196. The number of reserves increased by over one million to 4,899,575 -probably due to increased reserves of EBooks.

Detailed Statistical Tables From the Report (PDF)

Filed under: Data Files, Digital Collections, Interactive Tools, Libraries, News, Patrons and Users, Public Libraries