National Read a Book Day, on September 6, is a simple invitation: pick up a book and read. It could be a novel, a biography, a cookbook, a graphic novel or an audiobook. Early September, when many people return to school and fall routines, is a perfect time to build a reading habit. Whether you read for 10 minutes or an entire afternoon, every page counts.
History of National Read a Book Day
Reading has been a path to knowledge and imagination for thousands of years, but for most of history, books were rare and literacy was limited. The printing press in the 1400s, public schools in the 1800s and public libraries made reading accessible to far more people.
In the United States, the public library movement expanded in the late 1800s and early 1900s, supported by philanthropists and communities. Paperback books, which became popular in the 1930s and 1940s, made books cheaper and portable. During World War II, the U.S. military distributed millions of free paperbacks, called Armed Services Editions, to soldiers.
Today, people read on paper, e-readers, phones and through audiobooks. September is also Library Card Sign-Up Month, promoted by the American Library Association. Who created National Read a Book Day is not documented.
Why National Read a Book Day Matters
Reading builds vocabulary, knowledge and critical thinking, and it can reduce stress and improve focus.
Reading stories about people different from ourselves can build empathy and understanding.
For children, being read to and reading independently are strongly linked to school success. Adults who model reading help children see books as a source of enjoyment, not just schoolwork.
How to Celebrate National Read a Book Day
- Read for 20 minutes: set aside time to read today.
- Get a library card: September is Library Card Sign-Up Month.
- Try a new genre: pick a book outside your usual choices.
- Listen to an audiobook: read while commuting or exercising.
- Read aloud: share a story with a child or friend.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, start a book club, create a shelf for book swaps or share favorite reads in a team chat. In classrooms, teachers can hold a silent reading period, let students recommend books to classmates or set up a reading challenge for the year. At home, families can have a read-in with blankets and snacks, visit the library together, or start a bedtime reading routine. Let children choose books they're excited about, even comics or joke books, to build a love of reading.
Fun Facts About National Read a Book Day
- The U.S. military gave soldiers millions of free paperbacks in WWII.
- September is Library Card Sign-Up Month.
- Audiobooks and e-books are popular ways to read.
National Read a Book Day FAQs
When is National Read a Book Day?
National Read a Book Day is September 6.
What counts as reading a book?
Any format: print, e-book, audiobook or graphic novel.
How can I build a reading habit?
Read at the same time each day, even for a few minutes.
What is Library Card Sign-Up Month?
A September campaign by the American Library Association.