Irish Children Flock to Beloved Series and Diverse Voices
Children’s literature dominated Irish library shelves last year, capturing the imagination of young readers and solidifying its enduring appeal. Beloved series like “Dog Man” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” continued to draw in eager borrowers, consistently ranking among the most popular titles. Remarkably, children’s and young adult books occupied the top 37 positions on both online and in-house borrowing lists, painting a clear picture of the genre’s prevailing influence.
Dave Pilkey’s “Dog Man” series reigned supreme, claiming three of the top six spots. "Dog Man: The Adventures of Dog Man 2: Unleashed," "Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kittties," and other installments from the series captivated young readers, amassing a combined 17,395 borrows. Jeff Kinney’s "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: No Brainer" alongside additional “Dog Man” entries rounded out the top six. Jamie Smart’s “Bunny Vs Monkey” series showcased further humor-driven success, sweeping four spots within the top ten.
Amidst this wave of familiar favorites, Irish libraries championed diverse voices and representation. J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” secured the 15th position, marking a significant milestone as the first female author to reach the top fifteen. Irish author Marita Conlon-McKenna’s “Under the Hawthorn Tree,” a poignant tale set against the backdrop of the Great Famine, resonated deeply with young readers, earning the 22nd spot.
This trend reflects a commitment to inclusivity within Irish libraries and highlights the growing importance of showcasing diverse characters and stories that resonate with young readers from different backgrounds.
Stuart Hamilton, head of libraries advancement with the LGMA emphasizes the significance of these results: “Not for the first time, children’s titles have dominated the most borrowed books in Irish libraries, reflecting well on efforts to improve reading among children and teenagers. This can be supported by creating a habit amongst adults and children of visiting our public libraries, which have hundreds of resources to suit all interests.”
The continuing popularity of children’s books within Irish libraries underscores the vital role these institutions play in fostering a love of reading among young people. Libraries provide access to a wide range of books that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds, inspiring lifelong passions for reading and learning.
By hosting engaging events, creating reading groups, and providing a welcoming atmosphere, libraries can cultivate a love of reading that extends far beyond the pages of a book.