Reading habits of the nation

It matters greatly to children to have good role models in reading behavior and to grow up with a positive attitude towards reading - the more likely they are to achieve good reading skills sooner. The READ team is very interested in reading and therefore examines all new information about reading in this country. That's why we compiled the main results of the Icelandic Literature Center's survey on reading behavior and attitudes towards reading and literature in October 2025.

What are the results?

The main results show that reading has decreased since the last survey in 2023. The total time spent on reading/listening has generally decreased. Women read more than men, they discuss books with others significantly more and follow discussions and coverage about books on social media more often. Older people read more than younger people and they read more in Icelandic than younger people. A quarter of the nation follows book coverage in the media and social media. The survey numbers indicate that reading has declined across all forms of books.

Results in numbers:

• The nation reads/listens to books on average about an hour a day

• 19% of Icelanders do not read books: men (24%), women (15%)

• On average, we read 2.3 books a month

• Women (76 min) read more than men (43 min) per day

• 72% of the nation has read a traditional book in the last 12 months (80% last year)

• 48% listened to an audiobook in the last 12 months (56% last year) and 49% of the nation subscribes to an audiobook service

• 31% read e-books in the last 12 months, but the number of those who read e-books is decreasing

• 19% of the nation sets reading goals

• 62% of the nation reads more often or only in Icelandic.

The survey was conducted with 2000 individuals aged 18 and older. This is the ninth time a comparable survey has been conducted and it's really quite sad to see book reading in such a poor state.

What can we do to boost reading and interest in reading?

1. Strengthen access to diverse reading material

   Invest in libraries and digital book collections focused on the interests of children and youth - such as sports, technology, adventures, and gaming worlds.

2. Increase the visibility of literature in the digital world; e.g., in media and social media

   Promote active and lively discussion about books through book talks, influencers, and regular book recommendations in media.

3. Create shared reading experiences at home and workplaces

   Encourage parents to read with their children and support book clubs or reading challenges for adults, for example, at the workplace.

4. Enhance incentives and participation in reading competitions

   Utilize successful role models like the Amazing Reading Contest to encourage reading with clear goal setting and shared experiences.
   
   

What can READ do to enhance children's reading and interest in reading?

Although READ is in full development, we see opportunities to make reading in the digital world even more fun. For instance, by:

• Make reading part of the routine

  READ supports daily habits. Just like brushing teeth – we read a little every day, always a bit, often together.

• Encourage with play and goals

  Children want to see results. READ measures time, shows progress, and rewards achievements.

• Connect reading to the child's interests

  Reading becomes easier if the material sparks interest. In READ, you can see, e.g., stories by interest: soccer, space, adventures, animals, superheroes, and everything under the sun.

• Empower parents and teachers with tools

  READ offers simple data and insights for parents and guardians: What was read, when, and how much. It strengthens conversation and support at home and in school.

• Create a shared experience

  In READ, we foresee in the future being able to have friend contests, school challenges, and family games. Children see they are part of a larger project – and it increases the joy in reading.