Berkeley Public Library Reveals 2025’s Most Popular Reads & Surprising Checkouts
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A new analysis of circulation data reveals insights into Berkeley residents’ reading habits and library resource utilization,with a surprising leader in overall checkouts.
As 2025 draws to a close, the Berkeley Public Library has released data detailing its most popular items of the year, offering a engaging glimpse into the reading preferences and practical needs of the community. From literary fiction to essential tools,the library continues to serve as a vital hub for learning,recreation,and resource access.
Literary Tastes: Fiction & Nonfiction in Demand
In the realm of adult fiction, “All Fours” by Berkeley-raised author Miranda July topped the charts with 1,540 checkouts.The semi-autobiographical novel, exploring themes of art, relationships, and self-discovery, resonated strongly with local readers. following closely behind were “james” by Percival Everett (1,460 checkouts) and “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey (1,402 checkouts).
The adult nonfiction category saw Ta-Nehisi Coates’ memoir and travelogue,“The Message,” emerge as the most sought-after title with 546 checkouts. The book sparked considerable discussion for its reflections on mythmaking and its controversial comparisons between the experiences of Black Americans and Palestinians.Othre popular nonfiction choices included “The Anxious Generation” by jonathan Haidt and “The Backyard Bird Chronicles” by Amy Tan.
Young Readers Engaged with Familiar Favorites
The library’s younger patrons demonstrated a continued love for established series. “diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess” by Jeff Kinney was the most checked-out book in the kids section, with 702 checkouts, while Suzanne Collins’ “Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” maintained its popularity in the teen category for the second consecutive year, racking up 286 checkouts.
Beyond books: Laptops & Tools Led the Way
However, the most surprising revelation of the year was that the most checked-out item wasn’t a book at all. Library spokesperson Aimee Reeder reported that at least 15,243 patrons utilized the library’s self-checkout laptops for up to two hours each, a significant increase from the previous year due to the addition of more Windows 10 computers. This highlights the library’s crucial role in bridging the digital divide and providing access to technology for all.
The Berkeley Tool Lending Library, established in 1979, also saw high demand. 50-foot extension cords were the most popular tool checked out, with 1,229 loans, followed by weedwhackers (950) and drill bit sets (543). The library’s tool collection,boasting over 5,000 items,includes everything from lawnmowers and bike repair kits to air quality monitors and even a dinosaur-shaped cake pan.
Parks Pass & Community Resources
The library also reminded residents of the availability of the California State Library parks Pass, wich grants access to over 200 state parks without parking fees. This year, 348 people took advantage of the pass, exploring destinations like Mount Tamalpais and Big Basin Redwoods.
[Image of berkeley public Library Tool lending Library]
Supporting Local Journalism
As the year concludes, Berkeleyside, the source of this information, is actively seeking support to continue its mission of providing vital local news coverage. “Thes are uncertain times,” stated Tracey Taylor, Berkeleyside’s co-founder. “Democracy is under threat…We believe wholeheartedly that an informed community is a strong community.” Donations made through December 31st will be matched 1:1, effectively doubling the impact of each contribution.
