What Gen Z Wants from Libraries: Takeaways from PLA 2026
As a Gen Z soon-to-be librarian, one of my primary goals since beginning library work in 2023 has been finding ways to engage and invite my generation into the library space. Across the many libraries I’ve had the pleasure to work in, Gen Z has remained one of the most elusive patron demographics. That’s why I was particularly interested in the session “How Gen Z Use (and Don’t Use) Public Libraries: New Data and Analysis,” presented by Professor Kathi Inman Berens and Associate Professor Rachel Noorda from Portland State University.
The fresh data from 2025 was illuminating. The presenters shared valuable insights into Gen Z library use, the paradoxes in their beliefs and actions, and key data points that contribute to a broader understanding of how this group interacts with libraries.
Findings showed that 67% of Gen Z had visited their library in the last 12 months—up from 54% in 2022—and that libraries are the second most common way for Gen Z to get books, between bookstores (#1) and Amazon (#3). Book banning, and librarians’ responses to it, have also raised libraries’ visibility, with 36% of Gen Z reporting that they get books through librarian recommendations.
At the same time, Gen Z places a high value on convenience. Sixty percent reported illegally downloading a book, citing convenience as the primary reason. Additionally, 28% chose not to get a book because the library wait time was too long, with 69% saying that more than a week’s wait is unacceptable.
Perhaps most striking, 85% of Gen Z respondents said they want spaces outside of their homes to relax. The appeal of libraries as a “third space” lies in the availability of unstructured, self-directed time. Yet a loneliness epidemic persists: 79% of those ages 18–24 reported feeling lonely—13% higher than seniors. Even more concerning, the data showed that lonelier Gen Z individuals are less likely to visit libraries; for each one-point increase on the loneliness scale, library use decreased by 27%.
Overall, the findings were encouraging. Libraries remain relevant to this demographic, and with intentional effort, we can better align services with Gen Z’s needs. By recognizing and responding to their priorities, libraries can strengthen connections with this group.
Focusing on what libraries already do well is key. As one of the country’s last free third spaces, libraries are uniquely positioned to support Gen Z. Creating friendly, welcoming, low-stakes environments, and promoting services that resonate with younger audiences, can help draw them in. Reducing hold times for popular materials, staying attuned to trends like BookTok, and engaging Gen Z through social media are all practical steps toward increasing use.
Ultimately, serving Gen Z effectively supports libraries’ broader mission: to evolve alongside their communities and provide meaningful, inclusive spaces for all—while also helping to address a growing loneliness epidemic.
