Librarians Share Reading Secrets

Rediscover the Joy of Reading: Librarians Offer 20 Tips to Read More Brilliant Books 

Do you miss the feeling of getting lost in a good book, but find yourself glued to your phone or TV instead? In today's world of endless distractions, finding the focus to read can be a real challenge. But fear not, librarians – those experts on all things literary – have the perfect prescriptions to revive your reading habit, discover amazing authors, and make reading a regular joy again. 

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1. Don't Despair Over Reading Pauses

"Life gets in the way, and it's easy to lose the reading habit," says Nancy Pearl, known as "America's Librarian" from her long career in Seattle's public libraries. "Between work, family, and the sometimes overwhelming state of the world, it can be hard to find the mental space and energy for reading." 

2. Audiobooks: Your New Reading Companion

"Reading isn't just about turning pages," emphasizes Pearl. "The act of engaging with a story, whether visually or through listening, is still reading. Audiobooks are an amazing alternative, especially if you struggle with finding dedicated reading time." Nancy herself prefers the audiobook experience these days, since it lets her enjoy a story on the go, while walking or doing other tasks. 

Louise Morrish, a librarian-turned-author adds to the audiobook appeal: "Science has shown it! Studies reveal that the same areas of your brain engage whether you're reading a physical book or listening to one. Audiobooks truly are a valid and fulfilling form of reading." 

3. The Library: Your Treasure Trove of Stories

"Libraries offer so much more than just books," says Morrish. "Seek out your local library – the librarians are experts at matching you with the perfect titles, and best of all, it's completely free to try out new authors and genres." 

Pearl echoes the sentiment: "Nothing beats visiting the library or bookstore and describing what you enjoy reading. Just say, 'I loved this specific book, can you find me something similar?'" Don't underestimate the power of expert advice! 

Beyond the bookshelves, consider the exciting events your library might host. Danny Middleton of Manchester Central Library (the UK's busiest!) describes his role as encouraging visitors to "discover the wonder within." From themed nights to interactive events, libraries are increasingly becoming social hubs as well as literary ones. 

4. Expand Your Search Horizons

Morrish suggests starting your book quest by reflecting on what hooked you in the past. "Did you connect with strong characters? Did the setting captivate you? Online searches like 'books similar to...' can lead you to fantastic recommendations." Goodreads, with its vast collection of user-created lists, and websites like shepherd.com, which curates titles based on specific interests, are excellent resources for finding your next literary obsession. 

Social media also offers a vibrant community of readers. Morrish recommends platforms like BookTok and following authors or book bloggers for that inside scoop on what's hot and what's worth your time. Don't forget the power of in-person connections as well – joining a good book club can spark your reading enthusiasm and introduce you to new favorites. 

5. Find Your 'Reading Spark'

Nancy Pearl believes every reader is ignited by a specific spark – whether it's unforgettable characters, an immersive setting, or a pulse-pounding plot. Take some time to think about what genuinely pulls you into a story. For a brilliant example of all three elements combined, Pearl recommends Larry McMurtry's award-winning "Lonesome Dove," following two Texas Rangers on a captivating (and dangerous!) post-Civil War cattle drive. 

6. Build the Reading Habit

"Consistency is key," emphasizes Louise Morrish. "Even a few minutes of reading each night can make a huge difference. Not only does it progress your current book, but it also creates a positive reading habit, making you more likely to pick up a book the next day and the day after that." If you're too tired late at night, try fitting in a reading session during your commute, a lunch break, or while walking the dog. Setting small goals, like aiming for a couple of books a month, can also be motivating, with rewards along the way. 

7. Embrace Your Preferences

When it comes to reading, there's no shame in following your passions. Danny Middleton, who has a self-proclaimed dislike of "grisly" stories, emphasizes that reading shouldn't be about pressure or what others deem worthwhile. From mysteries to romance to graphic novels, embrace the genres that bring you joy. Ian Cooke of the British Library seconds this, "The world of reading offers a vast range of possibilities, so don't feel limited – what matters is finding the kind of stories that make you want to turn the page." 

8. Experiment and Explore

"It's easy to get stuck in a reading rut," says Cooke, "but libraries offer endless opportunities to branch out." Try a new genre, an unfamiliar author, or a different format – who knows what hidden gems you might discover? If you typically enjoy long novels, consider experimenting with short stories or even poetry – a genre Cooke fell in love with a few years ago for its personal and evocative voice. 

9. Dive into Non-Fiction

Sometimes, real-world stories can be even more gripping than imagined ones. Louise Morrish recommends exploring the diverse world of non-fiction. Topics like current events, biographies, and even gut microbiome science have dedicated books waiting to be explored. Awards like the Women's Prize for Non-fiction or the Walter Scott Prize for historical fiction can provide a great starting point for inspiration. Remember, reading can happen through magazines, how-to manuals, or any material that feeds your curiosity and knowledge. 

10. Quick Reads: Short and Satisfying

Danny Middleton suggests the "Quick Reads" series for those seeking a quick but fulfilling literary fix. These shorter novels and non-fiction works are known for their fast-paced plots, easy-to-follow language, and are perfect for rekindling your reading passion. 

11. Banish Distractions

To truly immerse yourself in a book, Louise Morrish advocates for a distraction-free environment. "When you sit down to read, power down your phone or stash it elsewhere. The constant pull of notifications can disrupt your focus and diminish the experience." This advice extends to children as well – limiting screen time around books can spark a much deeper appreciation for stories. 

12. Surround Yourself with Stories

"Make books a visible part of your life," says Mariesa Dulak, a primary school librarian and author. Strategic placement of enticing titles in your home or workplace can inspire spontaneous reading sessions. Additionally, seeing a parent or colleague reach for a book (instead of a phone) sets a powerful example – especially for younger generations. 

13. Reading is for Every Age

The importance of early reading habits can't be overstated. Dulak emphasizes, "Start reading to children as infants. Even with simple board books, hearing your voice and interacting with the story is a vital part of language development." 

14. Read Aloud, Even as Adults

According to Nancy Pearl, the joy of reading aloud doesn't end with childhood. "A quiet evening with family, everyone reading in their own spaces, can be a powerful bonding experience, especially for teens." Ian Cooke recommends attending author readings or tuning in to literary events online for a different perspective on the spoken word. 

15. Track Your Reading Adventures

Ian Cooke suggests keeping a simple reading log – not for judgment, but for reflection. Jot down the title, author, and a few thoughts to help you rediscover what you enjoy over time. This can be as basic or as elaborate as you like. 

16. Ebooks or Physical: It's Your Choice!

While Danny Middleton confesses to being an "old-school" fan of turning actual pages, he acknowledges the convenience ebooks offer for tasks like ironing. Pearl chimes in by recommending Susie Boyt's "Loved and Missed" as a book that demands to be experienced in the classic print format. Dulak adds that while a Kindle might be a worthwhile vacation companion, there's something special about a permanent place for books on your shelf. 

Ian Cooke goes beyond the traditional debate, highlighting the potential of digital reading to revolutionize storytelling. He points to interactive books like Kate Pullinger's "Breathe," a ghost story that cleverly uses your phone and surroundings to create a completely personalized (and chilling!) reading experience. 

17. Don't Sweat the Fines

Keep those library adventures stress-free! Dulak recommends simple strategies like keeping books highly visible in your home to avoid losing them or forgetting due dates. Ian Cooke adds that most libraries have easy online systems for renewals and calendar reminders to ensure your reading journey isn't interrupted by overdue notices. 

18. Need a Perfect Holiday Read? Try these...

Let's turn to those page-turning summer escapades! Nancy Pearl recommends Rosamunde Pilcher for classic, feel-good holiday reads. For those who enjoy lighter reading with a more contemporary flair, Louise Morrish suggests authors like Tahereh Mafi, known for her compelling and accessible writing style. Danny Middleton is currently engrossed in the latest "Tales of the City" book by Armistead Maupin, while Ian Cooke finds the interactive, choose-your-own-adventure style of "80 Days" by Inkle Studios a fascinating blend of reading and gaming. 

For children, Mariesa Dulak highlights the "Skandar" series by A.F. Steadman as a fantasy-filled adventure with a modern edge, while older readers might fall for the beautifully crafted prose and themes of love and loss in Gabrielle Zevin's "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow." 

19. Know When to Fold 'Em

The librarians offer a unanimous solution for the dreaded slog: the 50-page rule. "Give it a fair shot," advises Nancy Pearl. "If you haven't found a spark by page 50, it's okay to walk away. As you age, time becomes too precious to waste on books that don't truly grab you." Pearl even offers a light-hearted formula: as you get older, subtract your age from 100 to calculate how many pages you should persevere with before letting a disappointing book go. And with the wisdom of age? You have permission to judge a book by its cover! 

20. The Rewards of Reading

Beyond simply losing yourself in fantastic stories, Danny Middleton emphasizes the mental health benefits of reading. "Studies consistently show that dedicated reading time, even just a few minutes a day, calms the mind and reduces stress – much more effectively than scrolling on your phone." 

Louise Morrish builds on this, "Reading boosts your empathy, increases vocabulary, and nurtures creativity. Evidence shows it benefits our social skills, emotional intelligence, and even academic performance. Giving your brain those focused moments off-screen is as important as any form of self-care." 

The Best Books For... 

Here's a quick sampler of recommendations from Nancy Pearl, a true master of the "doorstopper novel": 

Immersive Fiction: Eleanor Catton's "The Luminaries" weaves an intricate, award-winning historical tale. 

Gripping Non-Fiction: "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson intertwines the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the spine-chilling exploits of a serial killer. 

Family Sagas: Jonathan Franzen consistently delves into modern American life and relationships with multiple voices and perspectives. 

Make it a social activity 

Book groups offer a fantastic way to elevate your reading experience, according to Ian Cooke. While the thought of literary analysis might seem intimidating, he stresses that book clubs can be as casual or as in-depth as you like. "Sharing your thoughts and hearing others' perspectives can deepen your enjoyment," he says. If local options are limited, consider joining an online book club or even starting one with friends and family. 

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Use your imagination 

Let the words on the page paint a vivid picture in your mind. Louise Morrish suggests actively visualizing the world the author is creating, whether based in reality or pure fantasy. "Imagine yourself within those settings, interacting with the characters. This immersive approach can make the reading experience incredibly rich and rewarding." Nancy Pearl agrees, highlighting the unique power of books to slow down the pace of our lives. "Reading demands focus on a single task, giving your brain a welcome break from the multitasking that dominates modern life." 

Dip into short stories 

"Short stories are wonderful when you're short on time," says Mariesa Dulak. "They offer a satisfying story arc and the same emotional impact as a longer novel, but are perfect for those 5- or 10-minute reading windows." Authors like Lorrie Moore and Alice Munro are known for their exceptional short-story collections. Ian Cooke recommends reading short stories alongside a novel to analyze differences in style and storytelling techniques. 

Read with a child 

The shared experience of reading with a child can transform your relationship with books. "The warmth of snuggling together and the joy of exploring a story as a team can deepen your own appreciation of the written word," Dulak explains. Even very young children benefit from picture books, where they can engage with the story by retelling it through images or pointing out familiar objects. 

Think less about what you should be reading and more about what you want to read 

"If you can't get past the first three books of Twilight, then don't go past the first three books of Twilight," says Nancy Pearl. "Who cares what other people think? If that's what makes you happy, then do it. It's the same thing that I tell myself about watching bad television." Let go of any sense of literary elitism and embrace what brings you genuine joy. 

Make reading a regular habit 

To get back into reading, "you need to put those words onto the page and you need to do it regularly", says Louise Morrish. "The habit of reading is an incredible thing that will reward you time and time again. So if all you do is read one page before bed every night, then that is one page you would not have read. If that one page is part of a brilliant novel, or a fantastic memoir, it will encourage you to read another page, and another page, and so on."