What's Happening?
The 2026 State of Reading Report, released by Everand and Fable, reveals that personal recommendations continue to be the leading method for book discovery, surpassing AI-driven tools. The report, based on data from Everand and Fable platforms and a survey of over 1,600 U.S. adults, indicates that 'people I know personally' remains the top source for discovering new books. This trend persists despite the proliferation of AI recommendation tools in 2025. The report also highlights the popularity of book clubs, with 37% of surveyed readers participating in at least one club, and the rise of audiobooks as the most common digital reading format. Smartphones have become the preferred reading device, although 25% of readers still favor print books.
Why It's Important?
The findings underscore a significant cultural shift in how readers engage with literature, emphasizing the enduring value of human connections over technological solutions. This trend could influence the publishing industry, as companies may need to focus more on fostering community-driven platforms and experiences. The preference for personal recommendations suggests that readers value trust and shared experiences, which could impact marketing strategies and the development of social features in reading apps. Additionally, the rise of audiobooks and the use of smartphones for reading reflect changing consumer habits, which could drive further innovation in digital publishing and content delivery.
What's Next?
As personal recommendations continue to dominate book discovery, publishers and digital platforms might invest more in community-building features and social integration to enhance user engagement. The trend towards audiobooks and smartphone reading could lead to increased production of audio content and optimization of mobile reading experiences. The report's findings may also prompt further research into the psychological and social factors driving these preferences, potentially influencing future developments in the digital reading landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
The preference for personal recommendations over AI tools highlights a broader societal trend towards valuing human interaction and community in an increasingly digital world. This could have implications beyond the publishing industry, affecting how other sectors approach customer engagement and product recommendations. The emphasis on stress relief and escapism as motivations for reading suggests a growing need for mental health support, which could influence content creation and marketing strategies across various media.
