Rediscover Reading: Tips from Librarians to Love Books Again

Reading is magical — but in our digital world, it’s easy to lose that habit. Librarians from around the world share simple, friendly ideas to help you read more — and enjoy it. Here are some of their favourite ways to bring books back into your life.

1. Don’t blame yourself

• Life has many distractions and worries — missing time to read doesn’t mean you’ve failed.
• If you haven’t picked up a book in years, that’s okay. Start small, gently.

2. Try audio books

• Listening counts as reading. You can enjoy stories while walking, cooking, or commuting.
• Your brain reacts similarly to hearing a story as it does to reading words on a page.

3. Join a library

• Libraries are goldmines — free, full of choices, and staffed by people who love books.
• Ask librarians for suggestions ("books like this one") — they know how to match your taste.

4. Explore new books and genres

• Use sites like Goodreads or Shepherd to discover books in topics you like.
• Don’t stick only to what you know. Try crime, poetry, biography — something unexpected.

5. Notice what draws you in

• Some people love characters, others the setting or plot. Find what excites you.
• Focus on books that hit those points for you — it makes reading feel effortless.

6. Build a reading habit, even small

• Read a little every day — five minutes counts.
• Use commute time, waiting lines, before bed. Consistency matters more than volume.

7. Read what you enjoy, not what others tell you to

• Don’t read boring books just because they’re “important.”
• Pick genres and authors that truly interest you.

8. Be open to new styles and ideas

• If you always read fiction, try memoirs or essays. If you avoid poetry, give it a chance.
• Your taste may have evolved, and new voices can surprise you.

9. Try nonfiction or short books

• Some people find nonfiction easier to jump into — history, memoirs, essays.
• Also try short, accessible books like the Quick Reads series (150–200 pages).

10. Limit distractions while reading

• Turn off your phone or keep it away. Notifications pull us back to screens.
• Create a quiet, cozy space — even a corner with a lamp can help.

11. Surround yourself with books

• Leave books where you can see them — on your table, nightstand, or workspace.
• When books are visible, you're more likely to pick them up.

12. Start reading early with children

• Read aloud to little ones. It builds language and makes books part of life.
• Even babies can enjoy board books and hearing your voice.

13. Read aloud — as a family or with friends

• Sharing a reading time helps connection.
• Attend book readings (libraries often host authors) — it brings books to life.

14. Keep a reading journal

• Write the title, author, your thoughts.
• Over time, you’ll see what you like and remember your favorites.

15. Choose print or digital — whichever works for you

• Some love holding a paperback; others prefer e-books for portability.
• Audiobooks are great when your hands are busy. Use what gets you reading.

16. Don’t fear fines (just manage them)

• Know your library’s rules, how to renew, and set reminders.
• Don’t let fines stop you — patterns matter more than one late return.

17. Know when to stop a book

• If a book isn’t engaging by page 50, it’s okay to quit.
• Life’s too short for reading that feels like a chore.

18. Look for the perfect holiday read

• Librarians suggest sagas, fantasy, fast-paced novels.
• Whether a page-turner or comfort read, find something that pulls you in.

19. Ten minutes is enough

• Even a short daily read is good for your mind and mood.
• Reading relaxes, grows empathy, boosts vocabulary, and gives your brain a break from screens.

20. Reading is good for your brain

• Studies show reading improves focus, empathy, and reduces stress.
• Even short daily sessions make a difference — it’s exercise for your mind.