A new Pew Research Center survey indicates that most American adults read at least part of a book in the past year, with figures holding steady since 2011. Print books remain the most popular format, read by 64% of respondents. The data contrasts with reports from last year suggesting lower reading for pleasure.
The Pew Research Center's latest survey reveals that a majority of U.S. adults engaged with books over the past 12 months. Specifically, 64% read a print book, 31% an ebook, and 26% an audiobook. These numbers have remained consistent since Pew began tracking them in 2011, showing no significant decline in reading habits. Women reported higher participation at 78%, compared to 71% for men, while adults under 50 were more likely to read than older groups. Only 14% of Americans read 20 or more books in that period, and book clubs involved just 7% of adults, with 10% of women and 5% of men participating. Pew's approach uses yes/no questions and counts reading 'all or part' of a book, which may include school assignments for younger adults. This differs from last year's studies, which focused on time spent reading for pleasure and found only 16% of Americans doing so. Survey design variations, such as wording and methodology, likely explain the discrepancy, according to analysts.