National Read a Book Day

Categories:: Arts & Entertainment
Tags:: Activities Fun
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every September 6
Holiday emoji:: 📚

National Read a Book Day calls all book lovers to indulge in their favorite hobby, guilt-free, every September 6. Dive into a new world, revisit a classic, or discover a new author. Challenge your perspective, expand your knowledge, and share your literary adventures with others.

Deals
Platforms
Social
Hero
History
Timeline
Businesses
FAQs
Importance
Celebrate
Related
Insights
Stats

Expected National Read a Book Day Deals

While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that National Read a Book Day brings delightful deals from various retailers. Expect major bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million to offer discounts on bestsellers and new releases. Online giants such as Amazon Kindle and Apple Books often feature sales on e-books and audiobooks, making it easy to stock up your digital library. Smaller independent bookstores frequently host special events, author signings, or offer in-store promotions. Look for subscription services like Book of the Month to provide introductory offers or bonus credits. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September 6 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Read a Book Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalReadABookDay. Share photos of your current read, favorite book nooks, or literary adventures.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalReadABookDay. Film short videos reviewing books, showcasing your book haul, or participating in reading challenges.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalReadABookDay. Start a discussion in a book club group or share your top reading recommendations.

National Read a Book Day Hero

Johannes Gutenberg

Johannes Gutenberg, a German inventor and craftsman, developed the mechanical movable type printing press in the mid-15th century. His invention revolutionized the spread of knowledge and literacy across Europe, making books more affordable and accessible to the masses. The Gutenberg Bible, printed around 1455, is considered one of the earliest and most famous printed books. His work laid the foundation for mass communication and the modern publishing industry.

History of National Read a Book Day

While National Read a Book Day is believed to have originated in the US, other details of the day’s history are unclear. What is clear, though, is Americans’ love for books! And, for many, this is a welcomed day because 81% of us don’t feel we spend as much time reading as we would like. So, today is the perfect opportunity to set aside a little time to catch up on our “to read” list.

The popularity of book clubs points to our ongoing love for books. They date back to the 1600s with women’s Bible studies. But, in the last few decades, reading has taken on a much more social element influenced, in large part, by Oprah Winfrey’s Book Club. Starting in 1996, Oprah’s Book Club recommended 70 books contributing to over $55 million in sales and has been credited with inspiring millions of people to read books.

Over 74% of Americans have read at least one book in the last 12 months. Sure, the busyness of life definitely gets in the way of our reading pursuits with many other activities competing for our time. Luckily, electronic platforms have made it easier for us to read on the go. Almost 20% of books consumed are now via electronic platforms. Whatever format you prefer, grab or download the book on the top of your stack and dive in!

National Read a Book Day timeline

First Century A.D.

Paper is Invented

Paper and the papermaking process are invented in China.

1455

The "Gutenberg Bible"

One of the earliest-known books is printed using a printing press in Europe making, it widely available to the average person.

1997

"Harry Potter"

The first novel in the "Harry Potter" series is released and goes on to sell over 500 million books, making it the highest-selling series of all time by a single author (J. K. Rowling).

2010

E-books

66% of public libraries now offer electronic books (or e-books).

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Read a Book Day

Local bookstores can host read-aloud events, offer special discounts on bestsellers, or partner with local cafes for ‘coffee and a chapter’ promotions. Libraries can organize community reading challenges, author talks, or workshops on digital reading tools. Cafes and restaurants might offer ‘bookworm specials’ for patrons seen reading, encouraging a relaxed atmosphere. Schools and community centers can arrange book swaps or create cozy reading nooks to celebrate the day.

National Read a Book Day - Survey Results

Info gathered by one of the top Market Research Agencies:

By The Numbers

1,207,937 — the number of reading sessions started on Bookly in the past year.

8.27 — the number of books per person by which book sales fell in 2001.

359,803 — the number of books and e-books added on Bookly between 2019 and 2020.

16,555 — the number of audiobooks added on Bookly between 2019 and 2020.

909,394 — the number of reading sessions started by female users on Bookly between 2019 and 2020.

350,485 — the number of reading sessions started by male users on Bookly between 2019 and 2020.

25-34 — the ages between which the most books are read.

80 million — the number of active users on the popular book site Goodreads.

24% — the percentage of American adults who have not read a book in 2018.

6 — the number of books by Dr. Seuss that rank among the top 20 bestselling children’s books of all time.

National Read a Book Day FAQs

When is National Read a Book Day?

National Read a Book Day 2026 falls on Sunday, September 6, offering a perfect opportunity to spend a leisurely day immersed in a great story.

How many books does the average American read per year?

While reading habits vary greatly, recent surveys suggest the average American reads approximately 12 to 14 books per year. Many avid readers exceed this, while others read fewer.

What are the benefits of reading regularly?

Regular reading offers numerous cognitive and emotional benefits, including improved vocabulary, enhanced critical thinking skills, reduced stress, and increased empathy. It also stimulates creativity and can improve memory.

Is National Read a Book Day a federal holiday?

No, National Read a Book Day is not a federal holiday. It is an unofficial observance dedicated to promoting literacy and the joy of reading across the United States.

National Read a Book Day Activities

Read a book
Of course, that’s the point of the day but you can put a fun spin on reading by joining a reading challenge. Google “reading challenge” images and you’ll see dozens of checklists and ideas on selecting books that will stretch your imagination while finding a book you won’t be able to put down.
Volunteer with your local library
Chances are, you have a local public library that can always use volunteers. Libraries do a lot of important work for their communities creating a safe, quiet space for children to learn. Community meetings are held in libraries and many function as polling places during elections. Donating books to your local library is a great way to share knowledge with your community and book donations often help libraries flesh out their shelves.
Share your passion with someone
Share your passion for reading with someone. Read to your children in order and pass along your love of books to them. You could also volunteer to read to an elderly adult unable to read on their own. Reading aloud to them not only improves your brain function and reduces your stress level, but it also creates a connection they will treasure and stimulates their brain activity as well.

5 Fun Facts About Bookworms

How many books bought?
Over 675 million print books were sold in the US throughout 2018.
How much money spent?
Americans spend an average of $28 on books annually.
Who’s most likely to read?
Adults aged 18 – 29 are most likely to have read at least one book in the last 12 months.
How much time spent?
The US tied with Germany as #22 in the world for time spent reading at just under 6 hours per week; India holds the top spot at almost 12 hours reading per person per week.
Who’s most satisfied with life?
One study showed adults who read at least 30 minutes per week are 20% more satisfied with life than those who are not spending the same time reading.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL READ A BOOK DAY

Books expand our minds
It’s rare that you would read a book and not experience a new thought or perspective you’ve never considered before. We open ourselves to new information when we read and can walk in someone else’s shoes for a while. Frequent readers tend to be more aware of cultural differences and social issues while showing more compassion and understanding.
Reading is good for our health
Studies prove that avid readers show fewer signs of stress and have higher problem-solving abilities than people who don't read. Reading renews energy, elevates mood, promotes more restful sleep, and slows the progression of Alzheimer’s and dementia through brain activity. Overall, reading leads to a longer, healthier life.
It creates community
With the popularity of book clubs, reading is now considered a team sport. Having a group of friends to share the highlights, learning points and humor of books makes reading that much more fun. The wine doesn’t hurt either!