Book Reading in 2025: What the Data Tells Us and Why It Still Matters
Book Reading in 2025: What the Data Tells Us and Why It Still Matters
Let’s be honest. Most people tend to scroll more than they actually read, and our attention spans are under siege. But before we throw our books into the closest river, lake or sea, the global reading landscape in 2025 offers insights and some reasons for hope. As a researcher and indie publisher, I’ve been digging into global literacy and book consumption trends and the findings are essential for educators, content creators, policymakers, and parents alike. Here’s what we know.
Globally, 87% of adults are literate, up from just 68% in 1979 (UNESCO, 2024) and that’s no small win. But 754 million adults, two-thirds of them women, still don’t have basic literacy skills. In the US, only 48.5% of adults read even one book last year. One book and that’s down from 52.7% in 2019 (Mastermind Behavior, 2024) so a real cause for concern. Young people are dropping off even faster. Closer to home, just 18.7% of UK children read daily for pleasure, which, again, is a record low (National Literacy Trust, 2025).
Interestingly (and perhaps crucially), research shows that 80% of those who do read say it brings them calm, connection and clarity (Everand, 2025). So, while fewer people may be reading, those who do are deeply nourished by it.
People aren't reading less because they can't. They're reading less because content has changed and so have the many platforms competing for our time. The behaviour isn't necessarily about laziness. It's about friction. But here's the upside: we're seeing a quiet, powerful shift. Communities like hashtag#BookTok and long-form newsletter culture are, slowly, pulling readers back in. Choice, voice and authenticity are driving a revival. And that’s where professionals, educators and publishers come in.
Reading is mental health: Six minutes of reading can reduce stress by 68% (Magnet ABA, 2024) and, for me, audiobooks and eBooks are not enemies of literature: They’re allies to accessibility, neurodivergence and choice. In my own work with writers and creators, I’ve seen firsthand that reigniting reading habits is possible, but it must be framed as pleasure, not performance. It’s time to:
Build reading habits, not just literacy skills.
Promote stories that reflect diverse lives.
Rethink “serious” reading. It’s the habit that counts.
Want More Insight? If you're interested in:
Reading behaviour and attention economy insights or connecting literacy to leadership, you can connect with me here. I’m always open to consulting and collaborating on reading strategies that cut through the noise.
Let’s bring books back. With purpose.
#FutureOfLearning #ReadingMatters #LeadershipDevelopment