Public libraries have seen a significant resurgence in usage and this in itself is positive news. It certainly reflects our nation's growing appreciation for literature and the arts.
In 2023, public libraries across Malta experienced a remarkable rise in book loans, increasing by 24.1% compared to the previous year, as reported by the National Statistics Office. This rise brought the total number of book loans to an impressive 39,881, highlighting the Maltese population's growing engagement with reading and public library resources.
This positive trend can be attributed to several factors, including a substantial rise in book donations and the increasing popularity of eBooks. Book donations saw a significant increase of 4,902, demonstrating robust community support for our public libraries.
Additionally, eBooks loans rose by 3,892, reflecting the growing trend towards digital reading formats. However, it is worth noting that book purchases decreased by 1,037, indicating a shift in how readers access their reading materials.
Geographically, the districts of Gozo and Comino, as well as the Southern Harbour, showed the most considerable increases in book loans, at 9.6% and 4.5% respectively. Public libraries in Victoria and Nadur, Gozo, recorded the highest number of book loans, with 30,962 and 24,253 loans respectively, signaling a vibrant reading culture in these areas.
In contrast, the Western district presented a mixed picture. While most libraries in this district saw an increase in book loans, the locality of Ħaż-Żebbuġ experienced a significant drop of 87.1%, resulting in an overall 9.7% decrease for the district. Similarly, the south-eastern district saw a 6.8% decrease in book loans, with notable declines in Ħal Għaxaq, Gudja, and Mqabba. However, the Marsaxlokk public library bucked this trend with a 48.5% increase in book loans, highlighting a localized surge in reading interest.
The Northern district also played a pivotal role, with public libraries in Mosta and Naxxar accounting for 50.5% and 15.0% of the total book loans respectively. This demonstrates a strong reading culture and effective library services in these communities.
New public library memberships saw a significant increase of 37.7% in 2023, with a notable rise in members over the age of 18, from 41.1% to 46.3%. This suggests that libraries are becoming increasingly appealing to adult readers, potentially due to expanded collections and services catering to their interests.
International trade statistics revealed that imports of printed book material increased by 9.2%, while exports decreased by 13.4%. National accounts data showed that private final consumption expenditure on books and newspapers/periodicals grew by 2% and 2.7% respectively. These figures reflect a robust domestic market for printed materials despite a decline in exports.
Opera in the Capital Returns to Valletta
This week we announced the return of the highly anticipated concert, Opera in the Capital, to St. George's Square in Valletta on August 30th at 9 pm. This event, featuring tenors Alan Sciberras and Cliff Zammit Stevens, along with soprano Nadia Vella, promises to be a highlight of our cultural calendar. The performers will be accompanied by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the musical direction of Maestro Michael Laus.
Opera in the Capital not only celebrates the art of music but also highlights the unique cultural heritage of Valletta. This event will offer a splendid evening of operatic excerpts set against the historic architecture of our capital city. Organized by the Valletta Cultural Agency, this year's edition continues our tradition of high-quality cultural events, following the success of the Valletta Pageant of the Seas in June.
ALS Malta's 'Legendary' Concert in Xagħra, Gozo
On August 9th, during the week of Santa Marija, ALS Malta will host a musical concert in Xagħra, Gozo, titled Leggendarju. ALS Malta has organized various successful musical events across Maltese towns and villages in recent years, and this concert promises to be another memorable occasion.
The concert will feature a live orchestra led by Gozitan Maestro Antoine Mercieca, along with numerous local talents, including Kurt Calleja, Owen Leuellen, Claudia and Fabrizio Faniello, and Maxine Pace. An afterparty with DJs Filletti and J-Joy will follow. The concert is free, with donations collected to support DAR Bjorn Respite, a third home for ALS patients.
We proudly support this noble endevour.
Ghaxaq Music Festival Celebrates 25th Anniversary
The Ghaxaq Music Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a spectacular event spanning five days across two venues. This milestone festival will feature an impressive lineup, including Grammy Award winner Julian Marley, international superstar Ronan Keating, Brit Floyd with special guest Harry Waters, the world-renowned Bootleg Beatles, and Malta's beloved band Tribali.
The festival will kick off with a night of reggae on July 24th, headlined by 2024 Grammy Award winner Julian Marley & The Uprising as part of their 'Colours of Royal' Tour. Julian Marley, son of the legendary Bob Marley, will bring genuine reggae rhythms to the stage, performing songs from his latest award-winning album and timeless classics from his father's repertoire. Known for his vibrant stage presence, Julian Marley's performance is set to be an unforgettable night for reggae fans.
The evening will also feature a special supporting act by Fakawi, one of Malta's most cherished bands, and an energetic warm-up set by DJ Mykill. The festivities will conclude with a closing party hosted by Malta's star DJ JJOY.
On July 27th, pop icon Ronan Keating will headline the festival, performing classics like "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and "Life Is a Rollercoaster." Keating's engaging performances are a highlight of the summer, offering fans a memorable musical experience.
Adding to the excitement, Shaun Farrugia, one of Malta's rising stars, will perform as a supporting act. An electrifying warm-up set by Pierre Cordina and a dynamic closing party by DJ Sue will ensure a spectacular finish to the evening.
On July 31st, Ghaxaq will host Brit Floyd, the world's premier Pink Floyd tribute band, along with special guest Harry Waters. This concert will celebrate 30 years of P·U·L·S·E, featuring a stunning laser and light show, iconic circular screen, and performances of classic Pink Floyd tracks. The event promises a musical and visual feast, creating a truly unforgettable night.
The festival will culminate with a grand finale at GhaxaqSquare on August 7th and 8th. The Bootleg Beatles, acclaimed as the ultimate Beatles tribute band, will headline the first night, performing authentic renditions of Beatles' classics. The second night will feature Tribali, known for their vibrant fusion of global sounds. They will debut their highly anticipated fifth album, "Anka," promising an evening of exhilarating performances.
Both events are free, with donations supporting the Embrace Diversity Organization. The festival's history of charitable contributions, totaling over €50,000 in the past three years, highlights its commitment to giving back to the community.
Again, we proudly support these events.
These developments and events underscore the vibrant cultural landscape of Malta. The remarkable increase in public library book loans reflects our population's growing engagement with reading, while our diverse and high-quality cultural events celebrate the rich heritage and artistic talent of our nation. We are proud of these achievements and look forward to seeing continued growth and enthusiasm in our cultural sector.
Roberta Metsola
I would like to congratulate Roberta Metsola for her re-election to the Presidency of the European Parliament and for the remarkable way she has done, securing so much support across the board.
It is indeed an amazing feeling to see a fellow Maltese occupy the chair of President of the European Parliament and, as a fellow Maltese, I am very proud of what Roberta has manged to achieve.
Of course we come from different political families, and there are points upon which we might disagree. However, the aspects which bring us together far, far outweigh those which might put us in different political positions.
As my colleague and good friend of many years Ian Borg has said, this was a remarkable year for Malta with Roberta being re-elected President of the European Parliament and Ian himself occupying the chair of President of the United Nations and Chair in Office of OSCE. We want more Maltese people to achieve this level of success because, in this manner, they are pushing forward the name of our beautiful country across the world.
I appeal to both Roberta and Ian to actively work for peace, particularly in areas sensitive to us Maltese like the Middle East. They have to be the voice of the voiceless, and have to fight for true justice. That is what we Maltese do.