5 Reasons to Read Everyday
Posted on September 28, 2018
by April S
No one reads books anymore – really? For some reason, people love saying this – a lot! But is it true? A recent Pew survey found that nearly three quarters of Americans, or 74%, consumed at least one book in 2017. Print still remains the most popular format with 67% of Americans claiming to have read at least one print book in the last year. So, what’s changed? Well, people are now consuming books in different ways, because they have more options. We’re reading eBooks and listening to audiobooks more than we used to. Is this really so surprising? People are busy, but they still love to read.
Daily readers know that reading makes them feel good and they enjoy getting lost in a good story. Most of us don’t really need an excuse to pick up a book. But if you’re looking for reasons to feel good about reading or simply want to find ways to spread the good word about how it’s essential to our overall well-being – we have some facts you’ll enjoy.
Top 5 Reasons to Read Books Daily
1. Reading Improves Brain Function
A person who reads everyday gets better at it over time. Not surprisingly, daily readers also gain more enjoyment from it than those that read less often. It can even improve memory and critical thinking skills. And activities like reading have been linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Learn More
Reading, Chess May Help Fight Alzheimer’s
2. Reading Reduces Stress
Modern life is stressful – period. Reading may reduce stress more than walking, listening to music or playing games. When people read a really engrossing book it actively engages their imagination, which in turn distracts from daily stresses (at least for a little while).
Learn More
How Reading Reduces Stress: Read for a Better Life
How Reading Books Reduces Stress and Makes You Smarter at the Same Time
3. Reading Can Improve Your State of Mind
People who are well read tend to be more empathetic and have higher self-esteem. When we read about other people it introduces the idea that people are human. We’re all different, we have flaws, things are not always perfect and that’s okay.
Learn More
Novel Finding: Reading Literary Fiction Improves Empathy
4. Reading Improves Overall Wellness
Spending 30 minutes a day reading a good book does a body good (and burns calories – who knew?). People who read daily may live longer. And reading before bed can help improve sleep. Just try not to stay up all night reading unless you have zero obligations the next day.
Learn More
Reading Books Might Help You Live Longer
Five Ways Reading Can Improve Health and Well-Being
8 Science-Backed Reasons to Read a (Real) Book
Why Reading Books Should Be Your Priority, According to Science
5. Reading Aloud to Children Has a Lasting Impact
Reading aloud to children from day one is incredibly important. And making it part of the daily routine helps children to cultivate good reading habits and a love of reading. It can have a lasting impact on a child’s life. These children tend to have higher vocabularies and often become frequent readers themselves.
Learn More
Reading aloud to children, more than talking, builds literacy
The Great American Read
Do you know about “The Great American Read?” It’s a television series from PBS that has sparked a national conversation about reading and the top 100 most loved books. The 8 part series features people from all over America talking about their favorite books.
10 Books from the List
There are a lot of really great books on the Great American Read list. Here are a few to get you started:
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FAQs
How were the top 100 books selected?
According to The Great American Read website, “PBS and the producers worked with the public opinion polling service YouGov to conduct a demographically and statistically representative survey asking Americans to name their most-loved novel. Approximately 7,200 people participated.”
Can I vote for my favorite book?
Yes. Anyone can vote. Just go to The Great American Read website and place your vote today (voting is opened until October 17, 2018). The winner will be revealed during the grand finale on October 23, 2018.
How can I find the books at the Library?
We have tagged all 100 books in the library catalog to make them easier to find.
Are there any related events taking place at the Library?
Yes. The Library is partnering with WGTE Public Media to host an event that celebrates the power of reading. Enjoy discussions, door prizes and be there for the big reveal of America’s best-loved book.
The Great American Read Grand Finale
When: Tuesday, October 23, 2018
Where: Sylvania Branch Library
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