Cairns Libraries achieve leading results in benchmarking report

• Leads Queensland in library visitation rate per capita
• Strong results in digital access and program engagement
• New strategy planned to guide future service delivery

Cairns outperforms in visitation and digital access

Cairns Libraries has emerged as a leading performer in a new Queensland benchmarking report, reflecting the Council’s commitment to community engagement and digital inclusion.

The report compared key services with similar libraries in Ipswich, Redland, Toowoomba and Townsville. Cairns led the state in physical library visits with 4.10 visits per capita, ahead of Ipswich (3.50), Redland (2.80), Toowoomba (2.00), and Townsville (1.80).

Cairns also ranked second in program attendance with 0.32 attendances per capita, just behind Ipswich (0.37), with a balanced mix of onsite and offsite participation.

Strong digital infrastructure and usage

Cairns Libraries offers 1.51 internet access devices per 2,500 people, significantly exceeding the benchmark average of 0.94.

The city also recorded the highest internet usage with over 170,000 hours logged, reinforcing the library’s role in supporting equitable digital access.

Modern collections, active users

Cairns maintains a current collection, with 77% of physical items acquired in the last five years – second only to Redland’s 86%. Cairns Libraries also ranked second in new acquisitions, with 0.17 items per capita.

While Cairns reported a lower membership rate (16.9%), this figure reflects only active users, offering a more accurate measure of community engagement.

Strategy to guide future growth

To meet growing demand and evolving community expectations, Cairns Libraries will develop a new Library Services Strategy.

The plan will guide future service delivery, support digital access, and build on the library's strengths in engagement and innovation.