When was the last time you read a book? In school, people actively encourage us to read. This is because reading supports learning and lifelong success. Multiple studies have shown that kids and teens who read have stronger academic outcomes that support their career and life goals. That encouragement disappears when we become adults, but the benefits do not and getting back into reading is as easy as it is fun.

Studies have shown that reading offers a variety of physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages. Regular reading helps keep your mind sharp and slows cognitive decline. Thanks to its meditative and entertaining nature, it also reduces stress, which offers health benefits such as reduced blood pressure. Unlike fast-paced entertainment like social media and TV, reading promotes self-care because it helps calm the mind in ways that allows our body to relax and recharge. Reading also helps you build connections with the people around you by enhancing your conversation, critical thinking, and empathy skills.

For adults with kids in their life, reading offers additional benefits. When kids see adults modeling healthy reading habits, it supports their own development as readers. It shows them that reading is for everyone and encourages them to read and to seek out books that interest them.

Step back into reading in whatever way suits you best. The first step is getting your hands on a book and one of the easiest ways to do that is at the public library. Sign up for a library card in-person or online and start checking out books. If adding to your home collection is more your style, stop by a bookstore and see what they have in stock. You could also download an audiobook from the library or your favorite audiobook source and listen during your commute or while you do chores. If you aren’t sure what to read, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) has tools like NoveList Plus and book lists to help you find books based on your interests, or you can take a look at bestselling book lists for inspiration.

Setting a reading goal can help you build your reading habit. You could have a daily goal to read for 30 minutes, or more long-term goals like finishing one book by the end of the month. You can also get motivated by reading challenges like PPLD’s Winter Adult Reading Program (in February and March) or Summer Adventure reading program (in June and July) where you read to earn prizes or virtual badges. Make a list of each book you read this year so you can see your accomplishments by the end of 2025.

If social settings are more motivational for you, consider joining or starting a book group. PPLD has monthly book groups you can attend, or you can find virtual book groups through resources like BookBrowse. You can also talk to friends, family, or neighbors about starting a book group with you. Use PPLD’s Book Club Kits for easy book selection.

Whether you are reading for your own health benefits or to make reading visible for the kids and teens in your life, you deserve to get back into reading.

Carla Bamesberger is the Public Relations and Marketing Manager for Pikes Peak Library District. Besides reading and touting all that the District offers, this Coloradoan enjoys spending time with her husband and pets, biking, crafting, and gaming. She can be reached at cbamesberger@ppld.org or by calling (719) 531-6333, x6259.