Despite years of losing population and readers, Japan keeps opening new libraries. And it makes perfect sense

Japan is adding more libraries despite a shrinking population and declining reading habits, with the network reaching about 3,400 in 2024.

Libraries are evolving into community hubs and social spaces, attracting younger users and serving as a “third place” beyond home and work.

This shift helps explain why library expansion continues even in a country with fewer residents and fewer readers.