Reading is like exercising—mental and physical benefits flourish with regular practice. Reading improves language skills, vocabulary and spelling skills; it introduces new ideas, perspectives and information; it staves off the effects of aging by keeping your mind active; it provides a vehicle for mental escape and creativity; and it relaxes, entertains, and inspires your soul. Take time out to read today.

TAKE ACTION TODAY

1. Read a book you've never read before. If you don't have one on your shelf, go to the library, local bookstore, or order one online.
2. Join a book club or start one with your friends or co-workers.
3. Give books to people as gifts...especially this one!

FACTS

• 1 in 4 Americans don't read a single book per year, while the average person reads 7.
• More than half of today's adults are literary readers, meaning they read novels, mysteries, contemporary and classic fiction, short stories, plays, or poetry.
• Leisure reading has increased 10% over the last 6 years for all ethnicities.
• 58% of women read for leisure compared to 50% of men.
• 43% of all literary readers perform volunteer and charity work compared to 17% of non-literary readers. The more books people read the more active and involved they are in their communities through volunteerism, philanthropy, and politics.
• Book buying constitutes less than 6% of total recreational spending while spending on music, videos, computers, and software constitutes roughly 25%.