Americans Are Spending Less Time Reading For Fun

Reading for pleasure has decreased by 40% over the past 20 years in the U.S., according to a study. Analyzing data from over 230,000 Americans aged 15 and older between 2003 and 2023, the research found a steady decline in daily reading habits. Only 2% of adults reported reading with children daily. However, those who did read spent an average of over 90 minutes per day. The study also highlighted disparities in reading habits among different demographics, with Black Americans, individuals with lower education or income levels, and rural residents experiencing sharper declines. Researchers attribute the decline to the increasing prevalence of digital media, suggesting that national strategies should address adult reading habits to promote health and well-being. (Story URL)