It's January, which means it's time for another endless round of "Top of 20__" lists! Here at MCPL we don't want to be left out in the cold on this trend, so we thought we'd share with you a few of our top circulating titles of 2017. (Scroll down if you want just the list without the discussion...)
What makes a title a top circulator? Well, there are several criteria.
First, this list only covers MCPL's print collection. We also have an extensive and popular collection of e-books and audiobooks. Personally, I love the ability to check out a book and start reading without ever getting off my couch!
Second, the number of copies of a book MCPL owns will affect how many times it can circulate, as well its publication date. A book published in November 2017 can't be checked out that many times, even if MCPL has a lot of copies. Similarly, a book published earlier in 2017, but for which we own fewer copies, or for which copies were purchased later in the year, won't show up quite so high.
The top title on our Adult list illustrates these principles perfectly. Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance was published in June 2016, but remained popular throughout 2017. MCPL's copies circulated consistently throughout the year and we still have a holds list in 2018, as people continue to become aware of the book. In addition to the print book, MCPL's collection includes large print, CD, e-book and electronic audiobook versions of this title, although the print version got it on this list.
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| Go! Kits on display at Quince Orchard branch reopening |
One more note before we get to the list. MCPL's most checked out physical items of 2017 were actually not books at all. They were our Go! Kits. What are Go! Kits? They are themed bags for children and their caregivers to learn about different STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) topics. Go! Kits are available for two age groups: Little Explorer kits are for ages 3–6 and Young Voyager kits are for ages 7–12. MCPL currently has two sets of themes, which are available at different branches. Each kit includes theme related books, toys, and a tablet.
And now, on to the lists:
Adult Titles
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Customers check out Harry Potter and
the Cursed Child on release day in 2016.
The book was a 2017 MCPL top circulator. |
Children's Titles
Finally, if all of this wasn't enough for you or you just need some suggestions for the best books of 2017, may we suggest checking out our podcast? In the first episode of 2018, two of our librarians dove into the best books of 2017 for all audiences. Happy listening—and reading!
Labels: Books, Catalog, Reading
