Ipswich Libraries bookmark a record-breaking year
Published on 05 December 2025
The past twelve months have been one for the books as Ipswich Libraries achieves record visitation numbers and more than 1.15 million loans.
The annual Ipswich Libraries Report Card 2024–2025 reveals more than 30,000 people visited the Ipswich Children’s Library during September 2024, including a record-breaking 23,000 during the school holidays.
Community and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Jacob Madsen said the 2024-2025 report card reflects how Ipswich residents of all ages love their libraries.
“Our youngest library members continue to enjoy our popular children’s programming, with the April School Holiday Program seeing a remarkable 48 per cent increase in participation,” Cr Madsen said.
“The Ipswich Children’s Library continues to turn heads internationally. In June, we welcomed 26 librarians from 23 Korean institutions, including the National Library of Korea, who came to see firsthand how Ipswich is redefining the library experience for young readers.”
Cr Madsen said Ipswich Libraries are enjoying record-breaking engagement across the region, with membership and visitation numbers continuing to rise year-on-year.
“Ipswich Central Library continues to thrive, now serving 21,492 active members, which represents a 15 percent increase on last year,” Cr Madsen said.
“The Springfield Central Library remains the busiest branch in the region, welcoming more than 280,000 residents in just 12 months.”
Ipswich Libraries continues to support community members, with monthly deliveries to 130 house-bound residents who might not otherwise be able to access library branches.
“Last year, Ipswich Libraries delivered 408 outreach programs, which overcame transportation barriers by reaching 25,549 community members where they gather,” Cr Madsen said.
“Residents were able to gain access to library resources from afar, with 558,481 virtual branch visits, representing an increase of 12 per cent year-on-year.”
Beyond the numbers, Cr Madsen said that residents have shared that they value the free services, spaces and support offered by our libraries.
“Our libraries are at the heart of our community, giving residents a place to study, read, play and meet – and council continually refines its services to meet community needs,” Cr Madsen said.
BY THE NUMBERS:
- 1,159,944 library items loaned
- 558,481 virtual branch visits
- 14,452 community meeting room and event space bookings
- 59,972 free public internet computer sessions
- 2,075 free library programs
- 86,812 attendees at library programs
- Most borrowed Adult Fiction: Mind Games by Nora Roberts
- Most borrowed Children’s Fiction: Funny Weird by Anh Do and Jules Faber
- Most borrowed Picture story: What Would Bluey's Mum Do? by Bluey
View the Ipswich Libraries Report Card 2024–2025, or learn more by visiting the Ipswich Libraries website.