Everand is an online audiobook and e-book subscription service by the company Scribd. They have just released their State of Reading Report. There were several key findings: Half of the respondents report reading more this year, with stress relief and relaxation cited as key drivers. While 14% of readers prefer only physical books, most enjoy a mix of e-books, audiobooks, and print. Nearly 60% of younger readers use social media to discover their next read, reshaping how books are shared and discussed.
One thousand five hundred people were surveyed for the latest book report. Reading is more than just entertainment; it’s a cornerstone of well-being and personal growth. According to their survey, 94% of readers agree or strongly agree that reading is essential to them, with 95% reading for leisure and 85% relaxing. Reading has a strong ability to bring joy, calm, and escapism into our daily lives.
The way we read is evolving. Physical books remain an entry point for new readers and provide a touch of nostalgic charm. E-readers, as are audiobooks, continue to increase in popularity for their convenience and accessibility. Still, most surveyed readers said they like to read in various formats, with 50% preferring to read a mix of physical and digital books and 57% consuming a mix of audiobooks and e-books.
Regarding genres, readers gravitate toward fiction, particularly Mystery & and Crime, Thrillers, and Fantasy. Fusion genres like Romantasy are also on the rise – mainly due to the worldwide popularity of series within those genres – showcasing readers’ growing interest in emotionally complex stories.
Social media can connect us all and amplify how we find our next source of inspiration, knowledge, or escapism. BookTok and Bookstagram have become their cultural movements, driving book sales, championing authors, and creating digital spaces for vibrant communities where readers can share their perspectives, recommendations, and insights. The survey found that:
- 28% of readers think social media has influenced their reading habits to a great extent
- 34% believe reading has become more popular thanks to these platforms
- Younger readers are most likely to credit social media for influencing reading’s popularity to a great or moderate extent