The Maltese Bookworm’s Annual Haul: Three Books a Year

Imagine this: every year, the average Maltese resident adds three new books to their home library. That’s the revelation from a recent study, painting a fascinating picture of our literary habits. But what does this mean for our local book scene? Let’s look the numbers and explore the impact on Malta’s literary scene.

Numbers Don’t Lie: The Average Maltese Bookworm

The study, conducted by the National Book Council, found that the average Maltese person buys three books a year. This might not seem like much, but it adds up to a significant number when you consider our population. With around 514,564 inhabitants, that’s a whopping 1,543,692 books bought annually!

But who are these bookworms? The study found that the majority of book buyers are aged between 18 and 45, with a slight peak in the 25-34 age group. This suggests that our love for books is strongest during our formative years and remains strong throughout our adult lives.

Local Bookstores: Thriving or Struggling?

So, how does this translate to our local bookstores? The picture is mixed. On one hand, the steady demand for books is a positive sign. Local bookstores like Books & Books in Valletta and Agenda Bookshop in Msida continue to attract customers, both locals and tourists.

On the other hand, the rise of online retailers has posed a challenge. Many bookstores have had to adapt, offering online ordering and delivery services to compete. Some, like Ganado Books in Birkirkara, have even closed their physical stores, opting for an online-only model.

“It’s a tough market,” says Mark, the manager of Books & Books. “But there’s still a strong demand for physical books. People want to browse, to feel the book in their hands before they buy.”

What We’re Reading: A Peek into the Maltese Bookshelf

The study also shed light on our reading preferences. Fiction tops the list, with crime, thriller, and mystery novels leading the pack. Local authors are also popular, with the likes of Trevor Zahra, Walid Nabhan, and Immanuel Mifsud featuring prominently on bestseller lists.

But it’s not all about the latest blockbuster. Non-fiction, particularly books on history, culture, and current affairs, also have a significant following. This is reflected in the success of local publishers like Midsea Books and Merlin Publishers, who specialize in such titles.

“Maltese readers are curious and engaged,” says Dorian Cassar, publisher at Merlin. “They want to understand their past and make sense of the present. That’s why our history and social commentary titles do so well.”

: Nurturing the Maltese Bookworm

As we look to the future, the question is: how can we nurture this love for books? The National Book Council has several initiatives in the pipeline, from literary festivals to school reading programs. Local bookstores are also getting creative, hosting book clubs, author signings, and even wine-and-cheese nights with a literary twist.

But it’s not just about quantity. Quality matters too. As we continue to support our local book industry, let’s also strive to make our literary scene more inclusive and diverse. Let’s celebrate our unique Maltese identity while also opening our minds to the world beyond our shores.

After all, as the late Maltese poet and writer Oliver Friggieri once said, “A nation that does not read is a nation that does not think.” So, let’s keep thinking, keep reading, and keep adding to our collective library.