First paragraph (55-75 words)

64% of U.S. adults read print books in 2025, down from 72% in 2011, while e-book usage surged to 31% (from 17% in 2011) and audiobooks doubled to 26%. Despite digital growth, print remains the dominant format, with 75% of adults reading at least one book annually. The Pew Research Center’s October 2025 survey of 8,046 adults reveals slower recent shifts, with format usage stabilizing since 2021.

Second paragraph (55-75 words)

Demographic divides persist: college graduates (88%) read more books than non-graduates (60%), and Asian Americans lead in e-book adoption (42%), while White Americans prefer print (67%). Younger adults (41% under 30) favor digital formats, contrasting with seniors (23% aged 65+). Women outpace men in all formats, reading print (68% vs. 60%) and e-books (33% vs. 28%).

Third paragraph (55-75 words)

Book club participation remains niche, with only 7% of adults involved, skewed toward women (10% vs. 5%). Most readers consume 1-5 books yearly (38%), while 25% read none. The data underscores print’s enduring role despite technological shifts, with audiobook growth plateauing after rapid early-2020s gains. These trends highlight persistent cultural and generational divides in how Americans engage with literature.