Study: US Pleasure Reading Drops 40% Over Two Decades

story

16 hrs ago

Above: Book shelves at Billie Jean King Main Library on Aug. 7, 2025, in Long Beach, Calif. Image copyright: Juliana Yamada/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

story last updated 14 hrs ago

The Spin

Cynical narrative

The decline in reading represents a serious challenge that demands immediate attention. Reading has traditionally been a highly accessible and impactful way to improve life outcomes and engage creativity. If society loses this vital tool, the consequences will reverberate across education, relationships and people’s quality of life.

University of Florida

Optimist narrative

Reading habits are simply evolving with the times, and popular genres like romance, fantasy, and mystery are experiencing surges in popularity through book clubs and social media discussions. Rather than lamenting cultural shifts, people should learn to embrace the level of choice on offer, from traditional print to e-books and audiobooks.

CNN