According to a 2024 report by CEOWORLD magazine, the United States ranks as the world’s top book-reading country, with an average of 17 books read per person annually, followed closely by India with 16. Other nations with strong reading cultures include the United Kingdom (15 books), France (14), and Italy (13), reflecting deeply rooted literary traditions supported by high literacy rates and robust public library systems.
In Europe, Finland and Denmark also stand out for their commitment to reading; Finland recorded record library engagement in 2024, with the average citizen visiting nine times and borrowing 15 books, while Denmark took steps to address a “reading crisis” by proposing the removal of its 25% VAT on books to make literature more accessible, especially for young readers.
Developed countries lead the world because they foster strong reading habits and a vibrant research culture. A society that values books and knowledge produces informed citizens, innovative thinkers, and sustainable development. Reading is a key driver of national progress. Reading enhances critical thinking, broadens perspectives, and fosters innovation and research.
Societies with well-established libraries, vibrant publishing industries, and a deep-rooted reading tradition tend to build strong knowledge-based economies. In contrast, countries where reading habits are weak often struggle with intellectual stagnation and slower development. Therefore, book reading is not merely a hobby but a fundamental pillar of national progress and advancement.
Studies show that strong reading habits significantly increase library usage, as regular readers frequently rely on libraries for books, research materials, and digital resources. In the United States, about 56% of people aged 16 and above use library services annually, supported by nearly 9,000 public libraries and over 17,000 outlets, while the Library of Congress, founded in 1800, remains the world’s largest library with more than 173 million items.
Across Europe, roughly 50–60% of citizens visit libraries each year, particularly in Nordic countries, with major institutions such as the British Library, Bibliothèque nationale de France, and Vatican Library safeguarding vast cultural heritage. In Australia, around 75% of people read or listen to at least one book annually, and digital borrowing has grown significantly in recent years.
Encouraging parents to read with their children and promoting storytelling traditions can nurture curiosity from an early age
India ranks among the world’s most passionate reading nations, with an average of 16 books per person annually and about 352 hours spent reading, according to a 2024 CEOWORLD magazine report, placing it just behind the United States. Its strong publishing industry produces nearly 90,000 new titles each year in multiple languages, reflecting rich linguistic diversity and a growing middle class.
Reading is further promoted by institutions such as the National Book Trust and Sahitya Akademi. At the same time, digital platforms like Kindle and Pratilipi have expanded access to e-books and audiobooks, especially among younger readers.
According to recent surveys, Pakistan has a relatively low reading rate, with the average person reading only about two to three books per year. Studies by Gallup Pakistan reveal that nearly 75% of Pakistanis do not read any books apart from textbooks, highlighting limited engagement with recreational or intellectual reading.
Although digital media and social networks have become more dominant sources of information, this decline in traditional reading reflects broader challenges in literacy, access to books, and reading culture. Encouraging reading habits remains essential for promoting education, research, and national development.
To build a strong reading and research culture in Pakistan, it is essential to expand access to books through public and mobile libraries, digital platforms, and literacy programmes, especially targeting children and women. Schools should integrate creative reading activities and promote local literature to make reading engaging and relevant.
At the same time, public campaigns, social media, and community book clubs can help inspire interest among youth. Libraries can attract more users by extending opening hours, offering free Wi-Fi, and hosting workshops and reading circles in welcoming spaces.
Collaboration between educational institutions, libraries, and community groups can embed reading into everyday life, while affordable access to books through e-libraries and local publishing in Urdu and regional languages can make reading more inclusive.
Encouraging parents to read with their children and promoting storytelling traditions can nurture curiosity from an early age. Developing these habits will not only enhance knowledge, communication, and critical thinking but also contribute to Pakistan’s social progress, innovation, and long-term national development.