A recent study from the Pew Research Center found
that Americans under the age of 30 are probably doing more of their reading on
their smartphone or personal computer than on an e-book reader. The findings,
part of the center’s Internet & American Life Project, showed that 41% of
Americans under the age of 30 read e-books on a cellphone and 55% read on their
computer, compared to 23% using e-readers such as a Kindle or Nook or 16%
reading off a tablet.
The report found that 47% of young
Americans read e-content from books, magazines, or newspapers. It also reported
that 52% of survey respondents have not borrowed e-books at a library because
they didn't know they could.
At the same time, the study showed
young Americans still use the library for reading. Sixty percent of respondents
aged 16-29 use their local library, with 75% reading a print book, 19% using an
e-book, and 11% taking out an audiobook.
“Although their library usage
patterns may often be influenced by the requirements of school assignments,
their interest in the possibilities of mobile technology may also point the way
toward opportunities of further engagement with libraries later in life,” the
report concluded.
