In a notable year for community engagement, the Wasatch County Library has shared impressive statistics regarding its operations in 2025. With over 96,000 visits and nearly 340,000 items checked out, the library has solidified its role as a crucial resource in the community. Assistant Director Angela Edwards, who has been with the library for over two decades, emphasized that libraries are increasingly becoming 'third spaces' where patrons engage in various activities beyond traditional book lending. "When I was younger, I lived just two blocks from the library, but after accruing late fees, I was banned from borrowing books. It wasn't until I became a mother that I realized how vital libraries are, not just as repositories of books but as sanctuaries for community building," said Edwards. Her personal journey reflects the evolving role of libraries in modern society, especially as people spend more time online. The library's lending statistics reveal a preference for contemporary literature, with the most checked-out adult fiction books all published within the last two years. Notably, historical fiction is leading the pack with titles such as "The Women" by Kristin Hannah, "James" by Percival Everett, and "The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion" by Beth Brower. The top five also includes mystery novels like "The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore and "Broken Country" by Clare Leslie Hall. Young adult literature continues to attract readership, with classic series like "The Hunger Games" and "The Twilight Saga" remaining popular. Newer releases, including Jenny Han's "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" and "The Summer I Turned Pretty," gained traction following the success of their television adaptations. For younger readers, the library's junior series checkout numbers reflect a mix of beloved classics and newer series. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid," "Harry Potter," and "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" hold prominent positions, while titles like "The Princess in Black" and "Dragon Masters" are also gaining popularity. In the realm of nonfiction, trending self-help books such as "The Let Them Theory" and "The Anxious Generation" have captured readers' attention. Notably, the Dungeons & Dragons "Player's Handbook" has also made its way into the top checked-out nonfiction titles. Edwards noted that while the library's physical audiobook collection has diminished, digital audiobooks are becoming increasingly popular, yet some titles remain exclusive to platforms like Audible, complicating access for library patrons. The Wasatch County Library boasts a collection of over 477,000 digital materials, including eBooks, eMagazines, and eAudiobooks. "Initially, e-materials had a slow uptake, but now the demand is overwhelming," remarked Edwards. While physical audiobooks have seen a decline, DVDs remain popular, especially as not everyone has access to streaming services or reliable internet. The library has also expanded its offerings by acquiring unique items for checkout, from camcorders to outdoor movie projectors and even ghost hunting kits, which are frequently borrowed by adventurous patrons. This summer, a $35,000 grant from the Library Services and Technology Act allowed the library to enhance its computer lab. The upgraded lab now includes technology for converting VHS and cassette tapes to digital formats, a 3D printer, and a Vivid-Pix Memory Station for scanning and preserving personal memorabilia. As the library continues to grow, it has also issued nearly 1,400 library cards this year, reflecting a surge in community interest. Edwards noted, "I often spend hours at the front desk, and there isn't a moment where I don't issue a new library card. The growth is palpable." However, the library also faces challenges as an independent entity serving a rapidly expanding community. Residents of nearby Hideout often find themselves closer to Park City than the library, which complicates access for some. "Even as residents desire a small-town feel in Heber City, the reality of growth is here, and we must adapt our library services accordingly," Edwards said. In addition to traditional library services, community needs extend into social services. The library's Snack Shack, which provides free food bags for minors, remains a crucial resource, particularly during the summer months when children often spend extended hours at the library. Edwards emphasized the importance of addressing food insecurity, stating, "No child should go hungry, especially in a community that has so much to offer." Furthermore, the library hosts therapy dog visits and collaborates with Holy Cross Ministries to offer free therapy sessions in both English and Spanish, demonstrating its commitment to community well-being. Edwards recounted a touching story of a retired couple who rely on the library's curbside pickup and OASIS service for home delivery, showcasing the library's adaptability to serve all community members, regardless of mobility challenges. "It's rewarding to know we can still provide services to those who can't physically come to us," Edwards concluded. As 2025 draws to a close, the Wasatch County Library stands as a beacon of resourcefulness and community support, continually evolving to meet the needs of its patrons, fostering a sense of belonging and connection within the rapidly changing landscape of the county.