The Seattle Public Library recorded more than 12.7 million checkouts and 3.4 million in-person visits in 2025, highlighting continued demand for books, digital media and community services across the city, according to its newly released annual Impact Report.
The report shows that library users checked out materials at an average rate of 24 items per minute, with digital borrowing once again surpassing physical materials.
In total, patrons checked out 7.2 million digital items, including e-books, audiobooks and streaming services, compared with 5.5 million physical materials. The library also ranked 10th in the world for digital book checkouts through OverDrive and Libby platforms.
Library officials say the numbers reflect both growing usage and the expanding role libraries play in providing access to information, technology and community resources.
“The 2025 Impact Report shows a record number of active patrons and growing participation in Library programs,” said Chief Librarian Tom Fay. “These numbers are impressive, but the stories behind the numbers show the organization’s true impact. Our patrons tell us that through the Library, they are more empowered, enriched and connected to their community.”
More than 430,000 people used their library cards within the past three years, including 330,000 who used their cards in 2025 alone, the highest level of engagement in recent years.
Beyond borrowing materials, the library served as a major hub for community programming and services.
The system hosted more than 5,800 programs in 2025, a 65% increase since 2023, drawing more than 130,000 attendees. Programs ranged from author talks and tax assistance to citizenship classes, digital literacy training, homework help and small business workshops.
Early learning programs also saw strong participation, with more than 1,300 story times and literacy events offered in multiple languages, attracting 43,000 attendees.
The library’s after-school Homework Help program served more than 6,000 students across nine branches, offering free tutoring in reading, math and writing. One student described the experience as “like AI but better.”
Technology access remained a critical service, particularly for residents without reliable internet or devices at home. In 2025, patrons used library computers for more than 400,000 hours, printed 2.1 million pages and checked out Wi-Fi hotspots more than 6,500 times.
Library officials say these services help bridge digital gaps and provide essential access to tools needed for school, work and daily life.
The library also played a role in supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs. More than 4,100 people attended business workshops and programs, with the value of those services estimated at $8.3 million, according to the Urban Libraries Council.
In addition, the library expanded English language learning programs with support from a $450,000 grant, offering more classes, conversation groups and digital literacy training. The programs are designed to help immigrants and refugees build language skills, connect with others and access new opportunities.
Community feedback included in the report highlights the library’s broader role beyond books and media.
In a 2025 survey, 98% of respondents said the library improves quality of life in Seattle, while 97% said it is worth the public investment.
“The Library helps us feel connected and invested in the local community,” one patron wrote. “[It is] one of the few third-place spots in the city where we can gather without spending money.”
The full Impact Report is available online and at library locations across Seattle.