US sees decline in people reading for pleasure

A recent study shows that far fewer Americans are reading for fun than they did in the past. The decline has continued for decades and now affects nearly every type of reading, including books, magazines, newspapers, e-books, and audiobooks.

The study conducted by University College London and the University of Florida found that only 16% of the respondents read for pleasure in 2023, compared to 28% in 2004, a 40% drop over two decades.

Researchers suggest the drop may be linked to the rise of social media, technology use, and greater work pressures. They warn that reading less could hurt learning, imagination, empathy, mental health, and overall well-being.

Reading with children also remained very low at nearly 2%.

Experts emphasize that the benefits of reading come not just from the act itself, but from reflecting on stories and discussing them with others.