Reviving Print: How Millennials and Gen Z are Embracing Libraries and Bookstores
In an age dominated by screens, who would have thought Millennials and Gen Z would reignite the love for print books? Millennials and Gen Z are often known for their love of digital media and subscription services like Netflix, Amazon Unlimited, Audible, and Spotify. However, a new report from the American Library Association (ALA) reveals a surprising trend: younger generations are also avid users of public libraries, both physically and digitally, and strongly prefer print books.
Libraries: More Than Just Books
The report, titled “Gen Z and Millennials: How They Use Public Libraries and Identify Through Media Use,” shows that 54% of Gen Z and Millennials visited a physical library in the past year. These younger generations not only visit libraries frequently but also prefer physical books. They read and buy twice as many print books per month as older generations. Interestingly, the younger members of Gen Z are, the more print books they purchase.
The Role of Bookstores and Libraries
While bookstores are slightly more popular than libraries for discovering printed books, libraries still play a crucial role. According to the report, the immediate availability of popular titles and the overall shopping experience at bookstores make them attractive. However, libraries remain a significant avenue for book discovery among Gen Z and Millennials.
The Resurgence of Print Books
McKinsey’s insights highlight that Gen Z has spurred a revival in literature, particularly in young adult fiction. This genre saw a substantial increase in sales during the pandemic, with young adult fiction sales up by 30.7% in 2021 and continuing to grow. Despite a slight decline in sales and library circulation in 2023 and early 2024, this does not indicate a waning interest in print books. Instead, factors like the scarcity of lightweight, inexpensive paperbacks in libraries may contribute to these figures.
Social Media: The New Book Club
Social media is pivotal in how Millennials and Gen Z discover and connect with books. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok, with popular hashtags like #booktok, have become influential in driving book sales. Influencers on these platforms often highlight the physical aspects of books, such as abundant page markers, margin notes, and home library setups. These digital endorsements have a significant impact, with over 30% of young readers buying books based on social media recommendations.
The Impact on Bookstores
The American Booksellers Association (ABA) reported its highest membership in over 20 years in 2023, reflecting the growing interest in bookstores among younger generations. Membership rose significantly, with the ABA adding 173 members in 2022, totaling 2,185 bookstore businesses and 2,599 locations.
The Love for Libraries and Print Books
Young readers frequently cite reasons such as eye strain from screens, the need for digital detoxing, and their love of libraries for their preference for print books. This trend has helped drive book sales in the US to record highs, with more than 843 million units sold in 2021, 789 million in 2022, and 767.36 million in 2023.
At Color House Graphics, we understand the importance of print in a digital age. Whether you’re an author, publisher, or book lover, the enduring appeal of physical books continues to shape the industry. Feel free to share your own experiences with print books and libraries. For more insights into book trends and printing solutions, stay tuned to our blog and explore how we can help bring your next project to life.
