New research from eBay UK has revealed that the average home library is worth £577 and yet Brits admit to only having read 30% of the books in their home and to highlight the importance of books they are holding an eBay World Book Day Sale for the rest of March.
This research into the Great British bookshelf follows new sales data from eBay UK which has revealed that in 2019 a lucky seller on the online site sold a first edition copy of their Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone book for a whopping £9.3K. The beloved classic from author JK Rowling was recognised by Brits as one of the top nostalgic favourites alongside other popular titles including The Famous Five and The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe.
Further eBay UK sales data has revealed that as well as stacking our shelves with classics from our childhood, sustainable stories have been high on the agenda for Brits with the site seeing a 50% year on year increase in people buying second-hand and eco-friendly books since 2016.
When it comes to showing off our shelves, the research has found that a third (30%) of Brits are displaying their books in a bid to inspire their children to pick up a book and read, with 71% of parents choosing to read their own favourite childhood books to their kids to encourage a love of reading.
For bedtime stories, the research shows that we are still very much doing things by the book, with 71% of parents still preferring to read a physical book to their child as opposed to using an electronic device and 63% of children still reading physical books over audio books. The sites’ sales figures support this showing there has been 3000% more sales of physical books than e-books in the last four years.
The data also demonstrates a 36% year on year increase in sales of books on the site with sales in the children’s book category growing by over 28% during this time frame and one of the site’s main booksellers World of Books estimating they will sell over 50,000 books this World Book Day.
To help both parents and kids continue their love of reading, the eBay World Book Day Sale offering up to 50% off kids and young adults books through selected sellers on the site includes much loved children’s classics like The Tiger Who Came To Tea and Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone.
The eBay World Book Day Sale is available until the end of March with a wide collection of children and young adult books available with up to 50% off and free standard delivery, regardless of order size.
“It’s no secret that people in Britain are bookworms so it’s fascinating to get a glimpse into the titles we are stacking our shelves with. Reading a physical book is a great way to promote wellness and a digital detox which may appeal to a younger audience and parents trying to entice their kids away from the screens.
This World Book Day, we wanted to do our bit to help young people celebrate their love of reading by offering up to 50% off on a range of exciting stories on eBay UK. From children’s fantasy and fairytales to romance novels and sci-fi thrillers for young adults, our wide library of online sellers caters to everyone so you’re sure to find a story you will love.”
– Tilda Molho, Director of media and entertainment, eBay UK
