Americans Struggle Getting Reading Started
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Americans want to read more, but screens and digital distractions are making it harder to pick up a book.
Surveys commissioned by ThriftBooks found that while 70% of adults plan to read more this year, 57% say the hardest part is simply getting started.
Half of U.S. adults are also trying to cut down screen time for their well-being.
Barbara Hagen, Vice President of Marketing for ThriftBooks, explains why reading has become a challenge:
“We have all been there, the distractions are coming at us. Life has gotten a lot louder we’re scrolling we’re streaming looking at pages and views, and as a result kind of the time we put towards reading has diminished as these distractions have kind of taken over but the good news is that Americans still love to read and it’s just about getting started and finding the time for reading.”
The surveys also revealed that Americans set modest reading goals, with 87% saying a realistic target is reading at least three pages a day.
Despite the desire to read, many people struggle to prioritize books over screens, social media, and streaming content.
To help readers overcome these barriers, ThriftBooks is launching the 500 billion Page Challenge, a nationwide initiative aimed at reconnecting Americans with reading.
The challenge encourages participants to set personal reading goals and offers free resources, including reading trackers, book suggestions, and community support, to help them stick with their goals.
For readers who want to join, the ThriftBooks website provides tools to track progress, get recommendations, and connect with other readers across the country.
From fiction to non-fiction, classics to new releases, the challenge is designed to make reading accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Whether someone is reading a few pages a day or a full novel a week, the 500 billion Page Challenge is an invitation to slow down, unplug, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a good book.
