Children's book purchases on the rise
2nd July 2012 - 1:38pm
The number of children's books purchased in the UK increased last year by both volume and value, according to a new report from the Booksellers Association.
The study was released ahead of Independent Booksellers Week, which runs until July 7th, and reveals that children's books are currently experiencing a surge in popularity, with 36 new bookstores opening in the second half of 2011.
According to the Booksellers Association, the purchase of physical non-fiction titles drove the increase in children's book sales, with books about the upcoming Olympic Games proving particularly popular.
Independent Booksellers Week is now in its sixth year, with 300 stores around the UK taking part in 2012 to raise awareness of local bookshops and the economic and cultural contribution they can make to the country.
Booksellers Association chief executive Tim Godfray commented: 'It was gratifying to see an increase in openings in the latter part of last year and children's bookshops really holding their own.'
He added that it is important people continue to buy physical titles, which can comfortably sit alongside ebooks and help to keep bookshelves full.