A third of Americans say they’re reading fewer books

A Third of Americans Report Reduced Reading Habits

A third of Americans say they - With the summer reading season underway, a new CBS News/YouGov survey reveals that approximately one-third of U.S. adults are reading fewer books for personal enjoyment compared to a decade ago. This trend spans diverse demographics, including varying age groups and educational backgrounds.

Reasons for the Decline

About half of those reading less cite time constraints as a primary factor, noting they lack sufficient free time. Similarly, nearly as many point to excessive distractions, such as digital devices and social media, as competing for their attention. Over a third of respondents claim their attention spans have worsened in the past decade.

"Time demands and digital interruptions are driving many away from books," the survey highlights.

Alternatives to Reading

While reading habits have waned, people are turning to other activities. More than half of those reading less report increased screen time spent on movies, television, and social media—particularly among adults under 30, with nearly two-thirds attributing their shift to social platforms. Gaming is also rising, especially among men under 50, who are more than half as likely to prioritize it over reading. Women under 50, however, most frequently mention social media as their new focus.

Physical Activity Gains

Despite the screen-centric shift, a third of respondents across genders report engaging in more physical activities, suggesting a balance between entertainment and exercise.

Reading Preferences and Formats

Though many still favor printed books, some avid readers have adopted digital formats. A third of those reading over 20 books annually prefer digital versions. Meanwhile, most rely on recommendations when choosing books, with friends and family being the most trusted sources. Older readers often turn to reviews, while younger audiences favor social media and influencers for guidance.

Genre Trends

Fiction remains the dominant preference, driven by its appeal as entertainment, relaxation, and escapism. Mysteries are the top genre, favored by both women and frequent readers, though men show a stronger inclination toward science fiction and fantasy. Nonfiction readers, in contrast, lean toward history, with a clear preference among men. Women are more divided, often choosing between religious, philosophical, or self-help works.

Survey Methodology

The findings are based on a survey of 2,023 U.S. adults, weighted to reflect national demographics by gender, age, race, and education. Data was collected between June 2-4, 2026, with a margin of error of ±2.8 points.