Concerns about a decline in reading habits, fueled by the rise of AI and short-form video, are widespread, with some declaring a "postliterate era." However, experts suggest reading is transforming rather than dying, with a persistent demand for books and evolving methods of consumption.
A recent viral article highlighted fears that assigning full books to students is becoming obsolete, as excerpts suffice for standardized tests. This narrative, while resonant for many who feel a personal loss of reading time, points to a broader cultural challenge. Leah Price, a professor of modern book history at Oxford, noted that "reading was and is a crime of opportunity," with time, not material, being the limiting factor.
Despite the perceived competition from digital media, evidence indicates reading remains a significant activity. A 2025 Pew study revealed that the number of Americans who read books has remained stable. While print books still dominate sales, particularly in science fiction and self-help genres, e-books and audiobooks are also experiencing growth. Library checkouts for e-books and audiobooks reached a record 820 million last year, underscoring the accessibility and continued interest in reading across various formats.
Experts liken reading ability to a muscle that atrophies with disuse but can be strengthened with practice. Increased reading can enhance vocabulary, improve knowledge acquisition, and contextual understanding, potentially making algorithmic feeds less appealing. Beyond personal benefits, a well-read populace is considered vital for a healthy democracy, as envisioned by the nation's founders.
Navigating Friction in Reading
One significant barrier to reading is "friction"—the effort or difficulty involved. For some, the sheer physical bulk and complex subject matter of lengthy books, like Robert Caro's "The Power Broker," present challenges. Technology has addressed this by reducing friction, with e-readers and apps like Libby offering convenient access to vast libraries. E-books, with their portability and digital features, appeal to many, especially younger readers. Over 40 percent of young people have read an e-book in the past year, according to an April Pew study.
Audiobooks offer another way to integrate reading into busy lives, allowing individuals to consume content while multitasking. While some debate whether listening qualifies as reading, research suggests comprehension and retention can be comparable to print. However, digital formats can make it harder to revisit specific passages or grasp spatial elements of text, a feature that remains an advantage of traditional print books.
The Value of Cognitive Friction
Paradoxically, while reducing certain frictions can encourage more reading, other forms of effort are crucial for deep comprehension. Daniel Willingham, a psychology professor at the University of Virginia, argues that "learning only happens when there is some cognitive friction." The act of grappling with difficult text, taking notes, and pausing to reflect promotes deeper understanding. The physical act of turning pages and navigating a print book can facilitate this necessary mental work.
Meta-analyses from 2018 and 2019 suggest that paper-based reading may offer a slight advantage in comprehension and self-awareness of understanding compared to screen-based reading. Challenges like scrolling and the increased cognitive load associated with screens can potentially hinder absorption of information, though the differences are often described as small.
Intentionality and Enjoyment
How readers approach different mediums also plays a role. Decades of using screens for quick information retrieval may have conditioned users to scan rather than deeply engage. Naomi Baron, a professor emerita of linguistics, noted that digital devices have trained users to "keep moving like a shark," whereas print encourages stopping and concentration.
While digital devices can be distracting, intentionality can help overcome this. Harnessing focus, taking breaks, and gradually increasing reading time can rebuild attention stamina. Ultimately, the purpose of reading—whether for learning, escape, or pleasure—should guide the approach. Leisure reading, in particular, should be enjoyable. Experts emphasize that there are no rigid rules for leisure reading; readers can skip parts they dislike or abandon books that aren't engaging.
Concerns also exist regarding the increasing reliance on AI for summarizing or explaining texts. While AI can aid initial understanding, habits like note-taking foster better long-term comprehension and engagement. Pia Kreijkes, a researcher in this area, worries that increased use of AI to reduce reading effort could further decline reading skills, particularly among young people.
The future of reading may depend on balancing technological convenience with the cognitive benefits of effortful engagement. Fostering a love for reading, whether through print, e-books, or audiobooks, remains crucial for individual development and an informed society.