A Milanese reader picking up a book at a local public library this year is statistically most likely to choose La portalettere by Francesca Giannone. Data released by the Italian Publishers Association (AIE) for the BookCity event confirms the novel as the most borrowed book across the city’s library system in 2025.
Top Reads in Milan
The rankings reflect clear trends in contemporary Italian literature. Readers in Milan demonstrated a strong preference for domestic authors and established international names. Following Giannone’s work, the second and third most borrowed titles were by authors Valerie Perrin and Cristina Cassar Scalia. These figures were compiled by the AIE to coincide with BookCity, the annual event dedicated to books and reading in Milan.
Library circulation data serves as a barometer for public interest, tracking which narratives resonate most effectively with urban populations. While bookstores track sales, library statistics provide insight into the titles that citizens actively seek out for long-term engagement.
The Role of Libraries
The dominance of these specific titles suggests a sustained public interest in contemporary fiction that combines emotional storytelling with regional or cultural settings. The AIE data underscores the vital role public libraries continue to play in shaping reading habits within major metropolitan centers. As BookCity continues to highlight the importance of literature, libraries remain the primary access points for readers looking to engage with these popular works without the barrier of purchase costs.
Why it matters: This data highlights the enduring influence of public library systems in driving cultural consumption. For readers in the Middle East and Egypt, where library and community reading initiatives are increasingly viewed as essential for cultural development, these metrics illustrate how specific literary trends can mobilize large urban audiences and foster engagement with contemporary literature.