Today, Tuesday, September 6, is National Read a Book Day

 

Today, Tuesday, September 6, 2022, is National Read a Book Day, a day that encourages all book lovers to indulge in their favorite hobby and read.

Bringing new worlds to life, books enlighten us and transport us on exciting adventures. They can challenge our perspectives on the human experience in ways unmatched by other media. 

It is a day book worms can feel free to set aside their iPhones, iPads and other technological distractions and focus their attention on finding a quiet place to escape behind the pages of their favorite book. 

If you’re reading a book today, share a photo on social media with the hashtag #readabookday. 

National Read a Book Day is a great time to escape the stresses of everyday life by picking up your favorite novel or checking out a new one at the Birmingham Public Library, JCLC or your favorite neighborhood library.  

Reading improves memory and concentration. Research has shown that older adults who spend time reading show a slower cognitive decline and tend to participate in more mentally stimulating activities over their lifetime.

Over  the last few decades, reading has gained popularity, influenced largely on social media by the popularity of 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.

According to the NationalToday.com website, over 74% of Americans have read at least one book in the last 12 months and almost 20% of books are read today via downloadable platforms.