A new study shows reading for pleasure in the U.S. has dropped 40% in 20 years. Experts warn Americans are missing out on key health perks—like better sleep, less stress, and stronger empathy.
If you love cracking open a novel in your downtime, you’re now part of the minority. A new study has revealed that reading for pleasure in the U.S. has dropped by about 40% over the past two decades, and experts warn this cultural shift could have lasting health consequences.
📉 The Decline of Reading for Pleasure
Researchers from the University of Florida and University College London analyzed data collected between 2003 and 2023 on how often Americans read books, magazines, newspapers, e-readers, and audiobooks. Their findings, published in the journal iScience, showed that every year, the number of people who read for fun fell by around 3%.
“I was surprised at the extent of the decrease in reading for pleasure, as it was much larger than I had expected,” said study author Jessica Bone, PhD, a senior research fellow at University College London.
One particularly striking finding: only 0.5% of participants reported visiting a library on the day before their survey in 2023.
The decline isn’t evenly spread. Black Americans, people with lower incomes, less education, and those in rural areas showed sharper drops in reading habits. Meanwhile, women and people with higher education levels were still the most likely to read, though even within those groups, habits are shifting.
📱 What’s Driving the Drop?
Experts believe multiple factors are at play. Shrinking leisure time, fewer library visits, and limited access to books may all contribute. Technology, however, is one of the biggest influences.
“The technology we use has trained us to consume media in short, bite-sized bursts, and it seems more and more difficult to maintain our attention for prolonged periods,” said therapist Saba Lurie, LMFT. Compared with scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, reading a book may feel slower and less instantly rewarding.
💡 Why Reading Still Matters
The decline in leisure reading means many Americans could be missing out on key health benefits. Studies show that reading:
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Supports better sleep
- Strengthens empathy and social connection
- Improves cognitive health and reduces risk of decline
- Boosts creativity and imagination
- Enhances language and literacy
At a time when loneliness and burnout are common, reading can offer much-needed connection. By engaging with characters and stories, readers experience parasocial interaction, which fosters empathy and broadens perspectives.
“Books can expand our empathy and give us a much-needed sense of connection,” Lurie explained.
📚 Tips to Make Reading Fun Again
Experts stress that reading should be enjoyable, not a chore. Here are simple ways to build the habit back into your life:
- Read what excites you – Forget what you “should” read and focus on genres you enjoy, whether that’s romance, thrillers, or fantasy.
- Start small – Even 10 minutes a day can help. Psychologist Janelle Peifer, PhD, recommends carrying a book or tablet so you can read during downtime instead of reaching for your phone.
- Build a streak – Like Jenna Bush Hager’s “streaking” trend, aim to read a little every day.
- Use libraries and apps – Many libraries offer free e-books and audiobooks via apps like Libby.
- Find community – Join a book club or explore BookTok to connect with other readers and stay motivated.
📝 Final Takeaway
While fewer Americans are reading for fun, science makes it clear that picking up a book offers major mental and physical health perks. The good news? You don’t have to devote hours to reap the rewards. Just a few pages a day can reduce stress, improve focus, and create a deeper sense of connection in a fast-paced digital world.
So next time you’re about to scroll your phone, consider grabbing a book instead—your mind and body will thank you.
