Different readers, different approaches

A new report about understanding Australian readers, voting for the next Australian Children's Laureate, and another sneak peek at something on my bookshelf.

This week Australia Reads launched a new report about understanding Australian readers, tackling some of the big questions that I think readers of this newsletter likely consider on a regular basis:

How do we get more people reading? What are the best ways to reach those who rarely read? And what can we practically do to influence reading habits?

The report includes some things I found surprising, or enlightening, and others that seemed very obvious, to the point of being frustrating. Either way, it’s great to have this information formalised, and discussed broadly.

Some of the key takeaways include:

• The industry is getting it right for avid readers; we need to shift our focus to more infrequent readers

• Many Australians want to read more

• Finding books is an early barrier for some; and early reading experiences matter

• Different readers = difference approaches; there are so many ways to be a reader

• Regular reading habits help

• Make books more visible

• Encourage a range of formats

• Sell the comfort o…