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Paw Patrol, thrillers & fashion among top library picks

by Renee Doody

Published January 16, 2026

Paw Patrol, thrillers & fashion among top library picks

CRIME thrillers, self-help guides, Paw Patrol, fashion titles and Japanese comic books were among the most borrowed items from Fraser Coast Libraries in 2025, highlighting the diverse interests of local readers.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said popular loans also included Shrek, cookbooks and Guinness World Records, reflecting how libraries cater to all ages and interests.

“Our top three authors have remained unchanged for the past two years, with crime writer James Patterson again taking the top spot, followed by romance writers Danielle Steel and Nora Roberts,” Cr Seymour said.

“Bluey has been knocked off the top spot for the most popular Junior DVD, with Paw Patrol coming in first, Shrek second and Bluey third.

“Fraser Coast Libraries continue to evolve well beyond traditional book lending.

“Our libraries are vibrant community hubs, offering everything from books, DVDs, eBooks and eAudiobooks to seed and toy libraries, 3D printing, movies and educational talks.

Cr Seymour thanked the dedicated staff and volunteers for their hard work and passion in 2025.

“Last year, 60 dedicated volunteers donated more than 5,000 hours supporting staff and assisting library members, and we’re incredibly grateful for their commitment,” he said.

In 2025, Fraser Coast Libraries recorded:

· 729,506 loans and renewals

· 183,191 e-resource loans and renewals

· More than 17,400 new items added to the collection

Cr Seymour said 2025 also marked the introduction of Street Libraries across the region.

“These small book-sharing hubs have been installed in parks to help connect people who may not otherwise have easy access to a library with books,” he said.

“We installed 10 Street Libraries, providing 758 adult and children’s books, 38 talking books and 586 seed packets to communities across the Fraser Coast.

“The new year has already started strongly, with high visitation recorded across our five libraries on the first day of reopening.

“On Monday 5 January alone, 1,270 people visited our libraries, borrowing 2,816 items, returning 6,595 items and logging 520 computer and Wi-Fi sessions,” Cr Seymour said.

“It’s fantastic to see such strong engagement so early in the year, and we’re looking forward to introducing new programs and activities throughout 2026 including Citizen Science Corners, sessions to help with technology and Makerspace classes in Hervey Bay and Maryborough.”

Cr Seymour said planning is also well underway for the future of library services in the new Community Hub.

“We’re excited to see the library move into the new Community Hub building, due for completion in the second half of this year.

“With two full floors dedicated to library services and programs, this new space will allow us to expand what we offer and create even more opportunities for the community.”

Top 5 Most Popular in 2025 - Fiction