Libraries Draw Cost-Conscious Americans

Rising living costs are pushing more Americans back to public libraries for free books, streaming and events.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Inflation

Live Poll

Are you cutting back on spending or using free services more to save money?

Consumers are returning to local libraries to cut costs, with several of the nation's largest public library systems reporting recent increases in membership. More library-goers are borrowing materials and attending events as financial pressures mount.

Why it matters

Rising cost of living is driving people to their neighborhood libraries as financial pressures draw consumers in. The shift reflects how households are adjusting spending amid widespread strain on everyday budgets.

Pew Research Center surveyed about 5,000 Americans in late August, finding 44% struggled to afford at least one basic necessity over the previous year and 70% trimmed nonessential spending. The data does not show how long the shift toward libraries will last.

The players

Pew Research Center

Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan U.S. think tank known for public opinion polling and social science research on American attitudes and behavior.

New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is one of the largest public library systems in the United States, operating research and branch libraries across New York City.

The details

Izzy Rivera of Topeka, Kansas, picks up at least one book a week from local libraries, borrowing physical and digital titles through the Libby app. She also bought 15 books for around $20 at her library's used book sale and streams movies on Kanopy with her library card, which also gives free online access to The New York Times.

January: The New York Public Library began offering free New York Times access to visitors on its Wi-Fi network.
Late August: Pew Research Center conducted its survey of about 5,000 Americans.
Last month: Rivera bought 15 books at her local library's used book sale.

Roadmap

Pew Research Center's late-August survey found 44% of Americans struggled to afford a basic necessity and 70% cut nonessential spending, the household squeeze behind the library rebound. Library use is one visible response to that pressure, alongside the broader pullback documented in the survey.

Households trimming nonessentials may find free library services like books, streaming and newspaper access a practical way to stretch budgets. Those services are available with a library card, though availability varies by system.

The takeaway

Free library services such as e-books, streaming and newspaper access can offset some everyday costs for households cutting back. Checking a local library's offerings may reveal savings that many people overlook.