National Day

Library Shelfie Day

Celebrated on 01/28/2026

Quick Fact

Library Shelfie Day, celebrated on the fourth Wednesday of January, encourages book lovers to snap and share selfies with their favorite library shelves. The holiday was created in 2014 by the New York Public Library to promote library use and reading. It has since become a global social media trend, with hashtags like #LibraryShelfieDay trending annually.

Origins and Establishment of Library Shelfie Day

Library Shelfie Day was established in 2014 by the New York Public Library (NYPL) as a way to engage patrons and showcase the beauty of library spaces. The concept was simple: encourage people to take a selfie (a "shelfie") in front of a library bookshelf and share it on social media. The NYPL aimed to foster a sense of community around libraries and reading, and to highlight the diverse collections housed in libraries. The holiday quickly gained traction, with libraries and readers worldwide participating.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, Library Shelfie Day has grown from a local initiative to an international phenomenon. Libraries, schools, and bookstores now host events such as shelfie contests, photo booths, and themed displays. The holiday is primarily celebrated online, with participants posting shelfies on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook using hashtags like #LibraryShelfieDay and #Shelfie. Many libraries also use the day to promote their services, host author talks, or offer behind-the-scenes glimpses of their stacks. The event has evolved to include virtual shelfies during the COVID-19 pandemic, with patrons sharing photos from home libraries.

Facts & General Observations

  • The first Library Shelfie Day in 2014 saw over 10,000 posts on social media platforms.
  • Public libraries in over 50 countries now participate in Library Shelfie Day annually.
  • A 2023 survey found that 45% of participants said the holiday inspired them to visit a library they had never been to before.

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