AUSTRALIANS want to read more in 2025, with around one in two readers and non-readers alike reporting aspirations to do it more often according to new report.
New research from Monash University and book industry not-for-profit initiative Australia Reads aims to help the 49.8 per cent of non-readers, and 54.9 per cent of those who have read in the past year, who want to read more.
Behavioural scientists at Monash’s BehaviourWorks Australia have determined the best ways to overcome the barriers keeping people from reading.
The research identified six types of readers by examining the attitudes, motivation, and capability of readers, ranging from people who read voraciously to those who rarely or never read who each face distinct challenges.
Lead researcher Breanna Wright said the decision to pick up a book and read ‘might sound simple’ but was the result of a complex sequence of behaviours.
“Many people lack time or struggle with distractions,” Dr Wright said.
“But strategies such as setting reading goals, keeping books in visible places, and seeking out shorter books can help.
“For people who don’t read frequently but want to read more, engaging with ebooks and audiobooks can make reading easier and create more opportunities to read.
“For those readers, we recommend using platforms and tools like book subscription services and social media or asking librarians or booksellers for personalised recommendations.”
Euroa librarian Cathy Artridge said she was not surprised by the results.
“I guess we try to make the library a place where people, who are a little bit disconnected, can just come in and maybe get reconnected,” Ms Artridge said.
“And we don't mind if people aren't here every week, but then we certainly have people who come in multiple times a week."
On Friday morning, the 'usual' gang of pre-schoolers and younger enjoyed Ms Artridge reading to them at Storytime, a weekly event held at 10am.
Ms Artridge said as people got older and struggled with reading, audiobooks were a well-resourced option.
“The audiobooks I find are good for reluctant readers or readers who don't have the time.
“You can listen while you're doing other things, which is what I do."
The Euroa Library holds physical CDs, but readers can also download eBooks and eAudiobooks online using their membership number through the library's subscription.
The library also offers cloudLibrary and BorrowBox, and the Libby app accesses magazines online in audio format.
The Monash University research was based on a survey of 1622 Australians aged over 16 years.
It found only half of respondents regularly participated in reading as a recreational activity, compared with more than 80 per cent who watch movies and TV.
Only 17 per cent of readers said it was the hobby they dedicate the most time to.
Head of Australia Reads Anna Burkey said recreational reading rates are in decline in Australia, with more people finding it hard to find time to read for recreation.
“Despite the significant benefits that reading brings us personally and as a society, reading rates in Australia lag behind international standards,” she said.
“This new research has valuable insights into how we can support more Australians to read more books more often and make reading a daily part of their busy lives.”