Libraries have long been the sanctuaries of knowledge and imagination, but behind the serene shelves, a curious trend once gripped Australian libraries, delving into matters of book theft.

Book Disappearance and Overdue Book Returns

Cameron Morley, the head of public library services at the State Library of New South Wales, recalls a time in the 1990s when books on the occult and witchcraft frequently vanished. The mystery remains unsolved, and questions were raised on whether the enthusiasts took the books or clandestine motives were in play. 

While such library larceny might have captured attention, the actual extent of stolen books across Australian libraries remains elusive. Few libraries can accurately quantify the number of stolen items, considering that lost books are part of the natural wear-and-tear libraries experience.

Morley estimates that fewer than 1% of loaned books go missing across NSW public libraries. In Brisbane, where 33 libraries oversee a collection of 1.3 million items, over 29,000 books are considered lost or significantly overdue. Despite such losses, overdue books constitute a mere 2.9% of the libraries' physical collections.

Certain titles tend to go missing more than others. In Blacktown council libraries, the Bible and Hitler's "Mein Kampf" are among the most frequently lost books. High school resources, particularly Higher School Certificate support books, also experience high demand.

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Morley notes that some science fiction books, often published in series, are surprisingly rare. However, distinguishing between theft and genuine borrowing remains challenging. After all, the motive to steal is unlikely because the books can be borrowed.

With the declining use of overdue fees, many libraries no longer charge for late returns. In Brisbane, a lost book incurs the cost of the book plus a $5 administration fee. In Melbourne, the city council's most popular books include RF Kuang's "Yellowface" and Anna Funder's "Wifedom." Crime, romance thrillers, travel, business, and health nonfiction dominate the most borrowed list.

Libraries sometimes witness unusual returns, such as a book that was six years overdue in Melbourne. The condition of returned books often tells stories of their own - cookbooks bear food stains, art books have oils and paint, and puppy training books exhibit actual teeth marks.

Amid these quirky library escapades, a more sinister trend has emerged - a pushback against some sex education books for teens. Morley notes a growing organized campaign urging their exclusion from libraries, highlighting a concerning lack of tolerance in society.

Library Trends and Their Impact on Community

On a brighter note, popular cultural phenomena like "Bluey," a Brisbane-based cartoon, enjoy immense popularity in libraries. Despite the challenges, libraries are adapting to changing demographics and needs, offering a diverse array of resources beyond books.

Seed libraries, such as the Eastwood seed library in Sydney's Ryde council, which started in October,  are gaining popularity. This free initiative aims to promote home gardening.

Sound studios, makers' spaces, and study areas are becoming integral parts of libraries, reflecting the evolving role they play in communities. Melbourne's new Narrm Ngarrgu Library offers such a makers' space. Libraries go beyond being locations solely for books; they are environments where individuals can acquire knowledge, unleash creativity, and establish connections. This highlights the lasting importance of libraries in our society.

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