Our adult librarian at Peters Bookshop talks witch lit, BookTok, and why libraries are life-changing

March 12th 2023

About Helen Rosser Helen has experience selecting adult stock as part of her work in public libraries, as well as working in academic libraries at the University of Birmingham. Prior to this she also worked in non-fiction publishing. She strongly believes in the benefits of reading for pleasure for wellbeing, and enjoys thrillers, literary fiction and whatever happens to be the blockbuster hit of the moment. MEET OUR TEAM!

While Peters Bookshop are known for our extensive collection of children's books and work with schools, libraries and publishers to promote a young love of reading, our adult books service is just as exciting! Our adult librarian, Helen Rosser, has spent the last 18 months working with our library clients to diversify their fiction and non-fiction stock. From the most-borrowed books to emerging trends on BookTok, she's the one to ask when it comes to the best adult books for libraries. 

Growing importance of libraries

Thanks to the UK cost of living crisis, 44% of libraries are experiencing an increased demand for services. In addition to carrying out their usual duties, libraries told Libraries Connected researchers that they are also helping visitors with information on personal finance and budgeting, reducing household bills and accessing food and clothing. And with rising gas and electricity bills leaving many unable to heat their homes, 80% of libraries expect the number of people using the venue to keep warm will increase. With footfall in libraries on the increase again, a varied and plentiful library collection is more important than ever. 

Like popular book influencers such as Anna James and Eric Karl Anderson, enthusiastic and knowledgeable library staff are helping library users to find the perfect book. Some visitors may already have an idea of what they are looking for, by virtue of BookTok and Bookstagram. Here, users of TikTok and Instagram can share their book recommendations through videos, images and searchable hashtags like #booklover, #bookworm, #bookaholic, #ilovebooks and #booksarelife.

The perks of being a Peters Bookshop adult librarian

As our key contact for adult books, Helen has access to all of the biggest and undiscovered titles before they're released, so she has a great insight into what visitors are likely to issue. "As an adult librarian, I supply new fiction and non-fiction adult stock for libraries. It's part of my job to know about emerging trends in the publishing industry, which titles are being loaned out in libraries, what is popular on social media and in bookshops, and who's longlisted and shortlisted for book prizes. I share some of my favourite reads on our Adult Highlights page, so if you're looking for quick recommendations, that's a great place to start.

"One of the highlights of my job is getting proof copies of upcoming books and titles by debut authors. I've also been lucky to participate in the Diverse Book Awards and serve as a judge for the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize. I'm a big fan of local book festivals, such as the Birmingham Literature Festival and Wolverhampton Literature Festival, which both have really impressive line-ups while maintaining a focus on local talent." 

What are 2023's biggest trends? 

Some of the key trends this year have included a growing demand for eBooks and audiobooks, and an interest in cookbooks and self-development titles. More readers are also turning to political and journalistic books that cover current affairs. The best-selling book of 2023 so far, Prince Harry's Spare autobiography, has been a hit for many libraries, due to its unique (and often controversial) insight into the lives of the Royal Family. Helen says: "It's been great to see everyone getting excited about a book and visiting their local bookshop or library. I'll of course be putting my name on the list to reserve a copy! 

"Over the last year I've noticed a lot of interest in cosy crime, plus an increase in climate sci-fi and green issues in non-fiction. We've also seen a demand for Ukrainian titles and more books about Russia. New spins on Greek and Roman mythology are still popular, along with TikTok-fuelled romance and fantasy books. Although familiar names like James Patterson, John Grisham and Stephen King still dominate, publishing is moving towards becoming more diverse and there's been a shift towards more representative voices." 

Film fans have been treated to cinema and Netflix adaptations of literary titles including The Pale Blue Eye by Louis Bayard, Women Talking by Miriam Toews, and A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. Another popular trend is witch lit, which incorporates everything from witchcraft and gothic romance to supernatural fantasy, historical witch trials, superstitions and dystopia. Books like The Witches of Vardø by Anya Bergman, The Witch in the Well by Camilla Bruce, and Her Majesty's Royal Coven by Juno Dawson are appealing to Gen-Z and millennials, who feel empowered by stories about strong women who triumph over violence and oppression. 

Helen says: "Young adults are often the least represented amongst library users, so libraries could benefit from using social media platforms to appeal to such trends, or reminding TikTokkers and Gen-Z users that the library is a great place to keep up with literary crazes without breaking the bank." 

#witchlit is one of the biggest trends on BookTok, with people sharing their favourite witchy reads via short videos

EXPLORE OUR WITCH LIT RECOMMENDATIONS

Why libraries are life-changing 

The benefits of libraries for adults are well-documented: a 2023 study into the Suffolk Libraries service found that libraries improve wellbeing for parents and contribute positively to mental health and social networking. In helping to build a community, libraries give visitors the self-esteem and resilience to make the right decisions in life and explore interests and hobbies through books or workshops and education. Libraries also play a key role in driving economic growth by increasing footfall, teaching people research and digital skills to improve employability, and decreasing NHS costs by helping people to lead happier lives. 

Research conducted by The Reader showed that amongst younger adults aged 18-34, who are most affected by the current cost of living crisis, 59% believe that reading makes them feel more connected to others. Helen says: "Libraries support communities in so many different ways, but funding is constantly being cut and they are just not in the public psyche as much as they should be. Many are diversifying their offering by offering health and weight management, recycling facilities, reading groups, and even donating hats and scarves. Libraries, and qualified librarians, have the ability to change lives." 

Tips for using our library website 

• Filter down to exactly what you need with our Boolean search tool
• Take advantage of our themed book lists if you want to rotate or promote stock. You can take inspiration or order directly for book displays
• Browse and order pre-publication titles for up-to-date collections 

Helen's top adult picks

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