While the number of public libraries has gone down sharply in the Netherlands over the past few years, the number of library members remains fairly stable, according to new research by national statistics office CBS and library association VOB.

In 2009, there were 1,031 public libraries in the Netherlands, but this had fallen to 899 by 2010 and the trend is continuing.
Nevertheless, the number of people who are members of a public library remains a constant four million, the research shows. In particular, there has been an increase in library membership among the under-18s.
Youngsters and people with reading problems are the focus of special targeting.
In order to cope with changing public demand, libraries are adapting their services. ‘We might share a building with a school or supermarket,’ a VOB spokeswoman told news agency ANP. ‘We also operate unmanned service points.’
‘We are looking at how we can make libraries attractive and make sure people stay inside longer,’ she continued. ‘This means having a more up-to-date collection… the collection should look like a book shop.’
Do you use a public library? Share your experiences using the comment box below.