The most popular book checkouts in British libraries during the pandemic

British association Libraries Connected asked more than 400 librarians and 'bookworms' to choose the novel that meant the most to them during the pandemic. Among the top choices are classics of English-language literature from Mary Shelley, Thomas Hardy and J.R.R. Tolkien. Photo: AFP

When the pandemic blues crop up, everyone has their own way to deal. In Britain, library visitors and staff of course turned to books for comfort.

And certain novels, in particular by George Orwell and Rumaan Alam, were particular go-tos during this challenging period.