New Northchase Library sees high demand for popular books ‘Yesteryear,’ ‘The Calamity Club’

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, N.C. — Just weeks after opening its doors, the newest New Hanover County Public Library branch is already proving to be a popular destination for families and book lovers.

The Northchase Library, which opened July 9, has issued more than 1,000 library cards, according to branch staff.

For Ashlee Hecht, the library has quickly become a regular stop for her family.

“This is our third time here this week,” Hecht said.

Hecht said she brings her toddler to the Northchase branch to play with toys, check out books and make new friends.

“We have had a couple of playdates with other families, and all of our kids can play together,” she said.

Branch Manager Leigh Thomas said the library offers much more than books, with community spaces, programs and study rooms available to residents.

“I think there’s a lot of things that the library offers that people may not even realize,” Thomas said.

The demand for the library’s collection has also been significant. Of the roughly 36,000 items available for checkout, about 26,000 have already circulated since the branch opened.

Some of the most popular titles have even developed lengthy waiting lists.

“With the increase in costs and population, there is a huge demand for our resources,” said Melanie Morgan, director of the New Hanover County Public Library.

Morgan said books including “Yesteryear” and “Calamity Club” have about 150 people waiting to check them out.

“I mean, it’s incredible that we have such a demand, and I think that demand is going to continue because now, though people have always seen the value of the public library, there is more value now as the world changes,” Morgan said.

The library also offers e-books and audiobooks for those who do not want to wait for a print copy.

For readers who prefer physical books, Morgan recommends placing a hold online or asking library staff for assistance.

“If you are interested in a book, we recommend that you go online to put it on hold or come in and we can do that for you, and with a little patience, you will get your book soon,” Morgan said.

Readers looking for more local literary content can also check out WWAY’s New Cape Fear Chapter segment, which spotlights local authors and writers.