Life moves fast. Between work, school, family, and endless to-do lists, it can feel impossible to find time to sit down with a good book. But if you’ve been wanting to get back into reading or just want to fit more books into your schedule, you’re not alone. Here are some easy, practical tips to help you read more—no matter how busy your days are.
1. Save Time with the Library’s Online Resources
When you’re busy, making time to visit the library might feel impossible. That’s where our online resources come in handy. You can borrow e-books
and audiobooks without leaving home—saving time and making reading more convenient. Whether you’re grabbing an audiobook to listen to during your commute or an e-book to read in those random free moments, apps like Libby and Hoopla (among others) let you instantly access a huge selection of books. No need to worry about returning physical copies either—everything’s just a tap away!
2. Embrace Audiobooks
Who says you have to sit down with a book in hand to count it as reading? Audiobooks are a game-changer for busy schedules. You can listen while commuting, cooking dinner, cleaning the house, or exercising. Suddenly, that time spent in traffic or doing chores turns into productive reading time. With the library’s audiobook and e-audiobook collection, you’ll always have something good to listen to.
3. Set Small, Achievable Reading Goals
A huge reason people stop reading is because they set goals that feel too overwhelming. Instead of aiming to finish an entire book in a week, try setting smaller, bite-sized goals like reading 10 pages or 15 minutes a day. Even with just 10 minutes before bed, you’d be surprised how quickly you can get through a book without feeling like it’s a big commitment.
4. Carry a Book Everywhere
Turn those random pockets of time throughout your day into reading opportunities by keeping a book (or e-reader) with you. Waiting for an appointment? Grab your book. Stuck in a long line? Read a couple of pages. For tech lovers, reading apps like Libby and Hoopla let you take your entire bookshelf wherever you go. Don't forget to check out our other online resources!
5. Make It Part of Your Routine
We schedule so much into our days—why not add reading to that list? Pick a specific time of day to read, like during your lunch break or before bed. Once you’ve created a habit, even if it’s just 10 or 20 minutes a day, it’ll feel natural. Treat your reading time as a relaxing break from everything else, and you’ll look forward to it.
6. Try Shorter Books or Short Stories
When you’re super busy, tackling a 500-page novel can feel daunting. Instead, reach for shorter books or short story collections that are easier to pick up and put down. That way, you can still enjoy the satisfaction of finishing something without the pressure of a long commitment. Plus, short stories give you a complete, satisfying narrative in a bite-sized format.
7. Join a Book Club or Reading Challenge
Accountability works wonders when it comes to building a habit. Join a book club or take part in a reading challenge to motivate yourself to read more. Even if it’s just one book a month, having a group or a challenge to keep you on track adds a fun, social element to your reading life. Plus, you’ll get great recommendations!
8. Don’t Be Afraid to DNF (Did Not Finish)
Reading should be fun—not a chore. If you’re struggling through a book and just not feeling it, don’t be afraid to put it down and move on to something else. Life’s too short to read books you don’t enjoy! The more you read what excites you, the more likely you’ll make time for it.
9. Turn Off the Screens (Sometimes)
It’s easy to get sucked into scrolling on your phone or binge-watching TV when you finally get some downtime. Try swapping just a bit of that screen time for reading. Even if it’s just for 15 minutes before bed, turning off the screens and picking up a book instead can help you make reading a priority.
10. Combine Reading with Another Activity
Sometimes multitasking is the only way to squeeze in more reading time. Combine reading with another activity like taking a bath, sitting in the park, or waiting for dinner to cook. It can turn everyday moments into a more enjoyable escape, and those extra minutes can quickly add up to finishing a book sooner than you think.
Reading more doesn’t have to be hard—it’s all about finding small ways to fit it into your day. Whether you’re listening to audiobooks on the go or sneaking in a few pages while waiting in line, the more you incorporate reading into your routine, the easier it becomes. So grab that book, start small, and enjoy the escape that reading brings!