Most Checked-Out Books of 2024 Released by Baltimore County Public Library

At Baltimore County Public Library, 2024 was a year of great reads! With over 8 million items circulated, the library community showed their love for books in a big way. Some standout titles quickly became crowd favorites, creating long hold lists due to their popularity. From the story of a female chemist breaking barriers in the 1960s to tips for living a longer life, this year’s most checked-out books cover a wide range of topics.

CEO Sonia Alcántara Antoine is thrilled by the passion for reading in the Baltimore County community, saying, “We are proud to offer such a diverse collection of materials that continue to inspire and entertain our readers.”

The top spot for most checked-out fiction books in 2024 went to Bonnie Garmus’ “Lessons in Chemistry” for the second year in a row. This novel, which debuted in 2022, captured the hearts of over 1,850 readers this year. Collection Development Manager Jamie Watson credits Hollywood for keeping the book in the spotlight, especially with an Apple TV+ series adaptation boosting its popularity.

In the nonfiction category, Peter Attia’s “Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity” snagged the #1 spot with over 600 borrows. Despite competition from memoirs by Prince Harry and Britney Spears, readers couldn’t resist the science behind longevity in Attia’s book.

But the library’s offerings don’t stop there! If you’re looking for more great reads, the library encourages you to explore its branches for physical copies or sign up for an ecard to access the digital library. And if you’re seeking something new and unexpected, stop by the service desk for staff recommendations or dive into the Be Surprised Bundles for a personalized selection based on your interests and reading history.

Baltimore County Public Library is here to help you discover your next favorite book, whether it’s a bestselling novel or a groundbreaking nonfiction title. Let’s keep the love of reading alive in 2025!