Diverse Reading Trends in 2025: A Look at Library Checkouts

In 2025, library systems across the United States, including Johnson County and New York City, reported a diverse range of genres dominating their most-checked-out books. Unlike previous years, there was no single genre that stood out, reflecting a varied interest among readers. Johnson County Library's regional librarian, Gregg Winsor, noted that the list showcases a "diverse" and "savvy readership," with patrons responding to books mentioned in popular media such as NPR and BookTok.

Here are Johnson County Library’s most checked-out books of 2025NPRSpectrum News - NY1

The standout title in many libraries was "The Women" by Kristin Hannah, which not only topped the Johnson County Library's adult book list but also appeared on numerous most-borrowed lists nationwide, including those in Clawson, Michigan, and Lawrence, Kansas. The novel, which follows a U.S. Army nurse during the Vietnam War, was recognized for its engaging storytelling and strong word-of-mouth recommendations. Other popular titles included "Fourth Wing," "Iron Flame," and "Onyx Storm" by Rebecca Yarros, which collectively dominated the New York City library systems' lists.

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Female authors significantly influenced the most-borrowed lists in 2025. All top 10 books on the Libby app were authored by women, with notable mentions including Freida McFadden, Holly Jackson, and Emily Henry. In New York City, the top three titles were "James" by Percival Everett, "The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore, and "Onyx Storm" by Rebecca Yarros. The Bronx saw a strong preference for McFadden's works, while Manhattan readers favored Alison Espach's "The Wedding People."

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Reader preferences varied significantly across different boroughs and library systems. For instance, Brooklyn Public Library patrons checked out "Fourth Wing" more than any other title, while Staten Island's top choice was McFadden's "The Crash." This variation highlights the unique literary tastes of communities within the same metropolitan area.

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Brian Bannon, chief librarian at the New York Public Library, emphasized the importance of diverse reading habits, stating, "We love all kinds of reading... It doesn't matter how you read. It doesn't matter what you read, as long as you're reading." This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to promoting literacy and access to a wide range of reading materials.

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While the popularity of genre fiction and female authors is celebrated, some critics argue that these lists may not fully represent the breadth of literature available in libraries. Brian Bannon acknowledged that bestselling genre fiction tends to dominate these lists, which only capture a small fraction of the total resources libraries offer.

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The library checkout trends of 2025 illustrate a vibrant and varied reading landscape, with a notable emphasis on female authors and genre diversity. As libraries continue to adapt to the interests of their patrons, the data from this year serves as a reflection of the evolving literary preferences across the United States.

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