Story perspectives
One-Third of Americans Read Fewer Books, Survey Finds
6/19/2026
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Story summary
- A CBS News/YouGov survey of 2,023 adults (June 2-4, 2026) found one-third read fewer books than a decade ago.
- About half say they are too busy or distracted, noting worsening attention.
- More than half watch movies and TV, with nearly two in three increasing social media use.
- Friends and family are the recommendation source, with under-30s relying on social media and influencers.
- A quarter of Americans report reading no books.
