All press releases

    E-book sales up in 2019 after two years of decline

    Québec, September 24, 2020. – After two years of decline, the value of e-book sales by Québec businesses increased by 7% between 2018 and 2019 to $6.2 million. However, this value remains lower than in other previous years, for example in 2016, when the value of sales was $7.8 million. This was revealed in Optique culture No. 73, published today by the Observatoire de la culture et des communications of the Institut de la statistique du Québec.

    The number of copies sold follows a similar trend. From 520,300 in 2016, the number of copies sold declined by 15% in 2017, then again by 15% between 2017 and 2018, before rising 7% between 2018 and 2019 to 400,600. On the other hand, the average price of e-books has been gradually increasing from year to year, reaching $15.48 in 2019.

    Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on e-book sales in 2020

    In 2020, e-book sales by Québec businesses could take a new turn. Presumably, the COVID-19 lockdown will have boosted e-book sales, since consumers can acquire these books instantly, without having to leave their home, by purchasing them on the Internet. The monthly statistics published on the website of the Institut de la statistique du Québec will make it possible to monitor the evolution of sales in 2020.


    The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyzes and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is responsible for conducting all statistical surveys of general interest. The relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and all those wishing to learn more about Québec.

    Media relations
    Information and Documentation Centre

    Phone: 418-691-2401
    or 1-800-463-4090 (toll-free in Canada and the United States)
    E-mail: cid@stat.gouv.qc.ca

    Comments
    Was the information on this page useful to you?