Every year on 6 September, readers observe Read a Book Day, a simple occasion that encourages people to stop, pick up a book and spend some time reading. In a world filled with short videos, social media updates, messages and constant notifications, the day offers a reason to slow down and focus on a longer piece of writing.

Reading does not have to be a difficult or formal activity. A book can be a novel, biography, history book, travel guide, collection of poems, comic book or a subject-related work. What matters is making time to read something that holds your attention.

Read a Book Day is also a reminder that reading can be part of everyday life. A few pages before bed, a chapter during a lunch break or 20 minutes on a weekend can become a useful habit. Regular reading can improve vocabulary, build knowledge and expose readers to different ideas and experiences.

“Reading has taught me so much,” Harin De Silva,22, said. “I started reading Enid Blyton books as a child and I then started to read fantasy novels and I expanded my vocabulary and imagination because of it.” 

For many readers, the day is not about finishing a book quickly or reading a certain number of pages. It is about giving reading a place in a busy schedule. For some people, that may mean returning to a favourite book. For others, it may mean opening a book for the first time in months.

Why reading still matters

Books remain an important source of information and entertainment. They allow readers to explore subjects in greater depth than a short post or video often can.

Reading also requires attention. Unlike scrolling through a social media feed, reading a book usually means staying with one subject or story for a longer period. This can help readers practise concentration and follow complex ideas.

Fiction can also introduce readers to people, cultures and situations outside their own experience. 

“I love fiction, especially Normal People by Sally Rooney,” Ansh Katuwawala, 27, said. “It is one of my favourite books of all time.” 

Meanwhile, many non – fiction can provide information about science, history, politics, business, art and countless other subjects.

Building a reading habit

A regular reading habit does not require hours of free time. Starting with 10 or 15 minutes a day can be enough.

Choosing the right book is also important. A book that is too difficult or simply uninteresting can make reading feel like work. Readers should feel free to stop a book that does not suit them and choose another.

Setting a small daily target can help. Reading five or ten pages each day is more realistic for many people than setting an ambitious goal and giving up after a few days.

“I think so many of us don’t read because we are too busy scrolling on TikTok,” a reader who wishes to remain anonymous said. “But reading is something that develops character and makes our lives interesting.” 

Physical books versus e-books

The choice between physical books and e-books often comes down to personal preference.

Physical books offer a traditional reading experience. Many readers enjoy turning pages, seeing their progress and keeping books on a shelf. Printed books do not need batteries, charging or an internet connection. They can also be easier to share, lend or give as gifts.

“I need physical books,” Amaya De Silva,27, said. “I grew up turning pages and I simply need it. However, it’s annoying when I fall asleep and a heavy book falls on my face.” 

Meanwhile e-books are praised for offering convenience. Hundreds or even thousands of books can be stored on one device. Readers can change font size, adjust brightness and search for words or phrases. E-books can also be useful for people who travel frequently or prefer not to carry heavy books.

“I like e-books because it is more environmentally friendly,” Sampath Rajapaksha,31, said. “While I do read physical books, I find e-books to be more sustainable.” 

There are disadvantages to both formats. Physical books take up space and can be heavy, especially when carrying several at once. E-books require an electronic device and may bring distractions from messages, apps and notifications.

Neither format is automatically better. The best choice is the one that makes reading easier and more enjoyable for the individual reader.

A day to start again

Reading a book does not require a major commitment. It can begin with a single chapter.

Someone who has not read for months can choose a short book. A regular reader can try a different genre. Families can read together, and friends can exchange recommendations.

September 6 provides a useful reminder that reading does not have to compete with every other activity in the day. Even a short period spent with a good book can provide knowledge, entertainment or a chance to see the world from another perspective.

For readers who already have a book waiting on the shelf, Read a Book Day is a good reason to open it. For everyone else, it is a good day to find one.