Across Italy, libraries are proving that their role extends far beyond lending books. A new census by the Italian National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT), published in October 2026, counted 8,883 public and private libraries open to external visitors in 2025, recording more than 53 million in-person visits and over 34 million loans.
The figures capture a remarkable nationwide network, stretching from major cities to smaller communities. More than three out of four surveyed libraries are publicly owned, making access to books, knowledge, and cultural activities an essential part of local public life. The census, conducted between March and July 2026, covers institutions accessible to outside users but excludes school and university libraries.
