"This increase is particularly noteworthy," the National Library's latest report said, signaling a positive shift in reading habits after years of stagnation.
The upswing is attributed to improved accessibility to public libraries, particularly for economically active men aged 25 and above, whose participation has notably doubled.
The report credits the National Reading Development Program's requirement for public libraries to open on at least half of the Saturdays during the year as a pivotal factor in this change. "It turned out that the requirement...expanded the accessibility of libraries to economically active people, thus increasing their gender inclusiveness," the report states.
In addition to traditional reading patterns, the survey for the first time explored the impact of digital and social media on book consumption. Platforms such as TikTok, YouTube (BookTube), and Instagram have emerged as significant influencers in the book community, especially among younger readers.
"This option was indicated by 17 percent of readers aged 15-24," the report notes.
The findings also delve into the demographics of book readers, revealing that pupils and students form the largest contingent, with 68 percent identifying as readers. Moreover, the group not only reads out of academic necessity, but also expresses a genuine affection for reading.
But, the survey, encompassing a representative sample of 2012 Polish adults, also uncovers a gender disparity in reading habits, with women more likely to engage in book reading than men, a trend partly attributed to the educational and child-rearing roles more often assumed by women, according to the report, as quoted by state news agency PAP.
(jh)
Source: PAP