Preliminary data indicates that 2024 is shaping up to be an excellent year for libraries in Huittinen. Statistics show that the main library and the Vampula branch library recorded a total of 71,706 visits last year, compared to 68,563 in 2023—an increase of over 3,000 visits.
Huittinen's library trends follow the national pattern of rising usage post-pandemic.
"Nearly 72,000 visits reflect how our library events have reached the public. Regular visits from early childhood education groups and schools also contribute to the borrowing numbers," explains Library Director Anni Tormas.
Approximately 84% of library visits—nearly 60,000—were made to the main library, while the Vampula branch accounted for just under 12,000 visits, around 16% of the total.
Tormas highlights the high utilization rate of the main library:
"A publicly accessible space for everyone is an important resource."
The increase in visits has been driven in part by the self-service library system introduced in both locations in 2021.
In June 2023, self-service hours were extended by four hours, making the libraries accessible every day from 7 AM to 9 PM. Previously, weekend self-service hours were from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Tormas emphasizes that access to library services in Huittinen is now better than ever, and residents have embraced the self-service system, using it actively.
”A publicly accessible space for everyone is an important resource."”
Library statistics also show a positive trend in borrowing. Loan figures have surpassed even pre-pandemic levels, with a 10% increase compared to 2023.
Last year, nearly 90% of loans—153,000 in total—were made at the main library, while the Vampula branch recorded 21,000 loans.
"The ratio of borrowing between the two locations has remained consistent with previous years."
Tormas underscores that these numbers represent more than just statistics:
"Behind every number is a person—both the staff and the active library users. We are delighted with these figures, and they encourage us in our work."
In recent years, Huittinen libraries have focused particularly on children's and youth library services.
"That’s where the readers and library users of the future come from."
"Of course, we have also invested in events for all age groups and in excellent customer service, which aims to 'match' the right book with the right reader," Tormas adds.
The collection of operational and financial data for public libraries in 2024 is currently underway, with all libraries submitting their reports to the Ministry of Education and Culture’s statistics database.
Nationally, statistics are compiled by municipality, but in Huittinen, figures are examined separately for both library locations.
"Our goal is to continue serving all our customers as well as possible, within the available resources," says the library director.
Regional administrative agencies will verify the submitted data, with the full report set to be published on April 1.
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