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A large-scale survey conducted jointly by University College London and the University of Florida analyzed more than 236,000 participants. Published in iScience, it shows that only 16% of Americans now read for pleasure every day, compared to 28% in the early 2000s. This trend raises questions about the place of reading in society and its effects on collective well-being.
A marked and unevenly distributed decline
The results highlight a continuous decline, estimated at about 3% per year. The decrease is not limited to an overall drop but particularly affects certain social groups. African Americans, people with modest incomes, and rural residents appear to be the most affected.
Researchers also observe that even among groups traditionally more inclined to read, such as women or college graduates, the practice is declining. However, a paradox emerges: among those who still read, the time devoted to this activity is increasing slightly. A discrepancy seems to be emerging between a small but dedicated audience and a majority that is gradually dropping out.
Reading with children stands as an exception: it has not declined over the two decades studied. Yet its frequency remains low, well below personal reading. This rarity is concerning, as the shared experience of reading is recognized as a driver of language development, academic success, and family bonding.
Multiple and intertwined causes
Researchers do not identify a single explanation but suggest several leads. The rise of digital media plays a significant role, directly competing for individuals' free time. Phones and online platforms divert hours once reserved for books.
Economic and social constraints also weigh on this evolution. People working multiple jobs or living in rural areas often have to forgo visiting libraries and bookstores. The general decrease in leisure time further accentuates this trend.
Beyond these material aspects, the study suggests an evolution in cultural habits. Reading, once perceived as an accessible and valued leisure activity, tends to be relegated behind activities seen as more immediate or interactive. This transformation reflects a different relationship with time and attention.
Going further: what does reading bring to health?
Reading acts directly on the brain by strengthening essential cognitive abilities. It requires concentration, sustained attention, and cognitive patience—qualities that are weakened in an environment saturated with digital stimuli. Regular reading also helps keep brain areas related to working memory and executive functions active, comparable to mental training that, over time, helps preserve intellectual abilities. Some studies even suggest that diligent reading practice could reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline, delaying the onset of disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
On a psychological level, reading acts as a powerful tool for emotional regulation. It promotes escapism by offering a mental breathing space, away from daily constraints. Research shows that even a brief reading session can reduce heart rate and lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Fiction, in particular, offers a unique benefit: by immersing themselves in stories and identifying with characters, readers develop empathy and improve their understanding of human emotions, which helps strengthen emotional balance.
Finally, reading stands as an ally of mental and social health. It helps combat anxiety and depressive symptoms by stimulating the imagination and providing access to diverse worlds where everyone can find comfort or new perspectives. Reading aloud, or sharing readings in clubs or discussion groups, also creates social bonds, an important dimension in preventing isolation. Reading is not just a source of knowledge: it functions as a true gentle therapy, accessible to all, capable of nourishing the mind, the heart, and human relationships alike.