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.