Despite predictions that library use will face a downward trend as need for printed media declines, the Iowa City Public Library has noticed an increase in library visits and borrowing for fiscal 2011.

In that year, more than 768,000 people visited the library, and 1.5 million items were borrowed or downloaded. Meeting room use remained close to the all-time high with 2,200 meetings booked that were not associated with library business.

Library electronic database use also increased by more than 50 percent. Use of downloadable media went up more than 100 percent.

The library also had an increase in the number of questions asked at the children’s desk as well as the reference desk. Reference chat service also saw more use.

The library worked with University of Iowa students to provide access to video streaming, children’s literature, and electronic collections, which has been a highlight of the year, said the library annual report.

— by Asmaa Elkeurti