Malta’s Average Book Buyer: A Closer Look

Imagine this: every year, Malta’s population of around 514,564 people buys a collective total of 1,543,692 books. That’s an average of three books per person, according to a recent study by the National Book Council. Now, picture the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, lined with bookstores, each one a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered. It’s a scene that reflects our island’s deep-rooted love affair with books.

The study, conducted in collaboration with the University of Malta, paints an intriguing picture of Malta’s reading habits. It reveals that while the average Maltese buys three books a year, the top 10% of readers purchase an average of 20 books annually. This suggests a vibrant reading culture, with a significant number of avid readers fueling Malta’s literary scene.

But what about the other end of the spectrum? The study also found that 15% of Maltese adults don’t read any books at all in a year. This presents an opportunity for initiatives like the National Book Council’s ‘Reading is Good’ campaign, which aims to promote reading among all age groups.

Malta’s bookstores are more than just retail spaces; they’re community hubs, each with its unique charm and story. Take ‘The Bookworm’ in Msida, for instance. This cozy little bookstore is a local institution, known for its vast collection of second-hand books. Owner Tony Micallef has been serving Malta’s literary community for over two decades, his passion for books evident in every corner of his store.

Then there’s ‘Books & Coffee’ in Sliema, a bibliophile’s paradise that’s also a popular café. It’s not uncommon to find patrons engrossed in their latest read, a steaming cup of coffee by their side. The store’s events, like author signings and book clubs, further cement its role as a gathering place for Malta’s literary enthusiasts.

Malta’s literary scene is thriving, with local authors like Immanuel Mifsud and Loranne Vella gaining international recognition. The success of events like the Malta Book Festival and the Valletta Literature Festival also bodes well for the future. But there’s always more that can be done to nurture this love for books.

Perhaps it’s time to consider more public libraries, like the one planned for Marsaskala. Or maybe we need more initiatives that make books accessible to everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background. 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 turning those pages, Malta. Let’s keep exploring new worlds, learning new things, and feeding our minds. Because every book we read is a journey, and every journey adds to our collective story.