“Benefit from our public library’s supply of free entry to Heated Rivalry on e‑guide or audiobook,” Mamdani mentioned
New York Metropolis is experiencing an surprising cultural surge as library card functions and e-book downloads spiked following a suggestion from Mayor Zohran Mamdani to learn Heated Rivalry throughout a significant snowstorm sweeping town.
As town was hit with important snowfall that made journey hazardous, Mamdani took a light-weight‑hearted however pointed method to public security by suggesting indoor studying as a substitute for venturing out. Throughout a press convention addressing the storm’s impression, he mentioned: “The snow is coming down closely throughout our metropolis, and I can consider no higher excuse for New Yorkers to remain dwelling, take an extended nap, or reap the benefits of our public library’s supply of free entry to Heated Rivalry on e‑guide or audiobook for anybody with a library card.”
The response was swift. The New York Public Library reported that e-book and audiobook downloads of Heated Rivalry surged by 529% within the days following the mayor’s feedback, with 1000’s of latest readers logging on to entry the title. Chief librarian Brian Bannon famous that library card functions greater than doubled in contrast with the identical interval final 12 months as individuals signed up particularly to reap the benefits of the digital supply.
Heated Rivalry, written by Rachel Reid and a part of her Recreation Changers collection, tells the story of two rival skilled hockey gamers whose secret romance captured mainstream consideration after the TV adaptation grew to become a cultural phenomenon. The guide’s reputation had already overwhelmed conventional wait lists, however limitless entry via the library’s digital platforms allowed readers instant entry.
Mayor Mamdani’s light-hearted however efficient suggestion got here throughout a routine snowstorm press briefing the place he inspired residents to remain secure and entertained inside reasonably than danger journey. His endorsement of a romance novel as a winter exercise sparked amusement and widespread participation throughout boroughs, encouraging not solely studying but additionally consciousness of public library assets.
Library officers mentioned the digital promotion — working via Valentine’s Day — has given a lift to curiosity in each the Recreation Changers collection and town’s library system as a complete, highlighting the position of public libraries as group hubs and cultural entry factors.
