Date
Saturday
Sep

September 6

National Read a Book Day

Take some time off and get lost in the pages of your favorite book - today is National Read a Book Day!

Yearly Date
September 6
Type
Day

Introduction

National Read a Book Day on Sept. 6 is the perfect day to escape into your favorite book and get lost in the pages! This holiday has been around since the early 2000s, and celebrates reading of all kinds; from novels to poetry, biographies to children's books. Whether you prefer physical copies or digital downloads, there's something for everyone on this special day. So grab your favorite novel or pick up one you’ve never read before – it’s time to celebrate National Read a Book Day!

National Read a Book Day Timeline

1450s
Invention of Printing Press
Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press, allowing books to be produced more easily and making them more accessible to the general public.
1800s
Beginning of Public Libraries
Public libraries started to become common, promoting the habit of reading among people of all ages and backgrounds.
1930
First Paperbacks
The first Penguin paperbacks were published, making books even more affordable and portable.
1971
Launch of Project Gutenberg
Project Gutenberg was launched, becoming the first provider of free electronic books, or eBooks.
2007
Introduction of Kindle
Amazon introduced the Kindle e-reader, revolutionizing the way people read and access books.
Early 2000s
National Read a Book Day
The holiday, National Read a Book Day, was established to encourage reading among people of all ages.

How to Celebrate National Read a Book Day

1

Read a book in a new place

Whether it's the beach, a park, or your own backyard, pick a new place to read. Enjoy the fresh air and scenery while you get lost in a book.

2

Host a book club

Invite friends over for snacks and discuss your favorite books. Compare notes on characters, plot lines, and writing styles.

3

Make a book list

Brainstorm all the books you'd like to read this year - classics, best sellers, self help - the possibilities are endless. Make sure to check them off as you finish each one.

4

Visit a local bookstore

Support your local bookstore and explore the different titles they have to offer. Ask an employee for suggestions to find something new.

5

Go to a library

Head to your local library and find some hidden gems among the stacks. You never know what kind of books you'll discover!

Why National Read a Book Day is Important

A

Reading develops critical thinking skills

By reading, we gain the opportunity to think critically and expand our knowledge on a variety of topics. Reading also helps stimulate and engage our imagination, allowing us to explore beyond the physical world and discover new possibilities.

B

It expands our vocabulary

Reading teaches us new words and phrases that will help us express ourselves more effectively. Reading can also introduce us to different dialects and unfamiliar words that may broaden our linguistic repertoire and increase our cultural awareness.

C

It encourages imaginative play & discussion

Inspired by stories found in literature, children can express their creativity through imaginative play which helps develop their fine motor skills. Books also provide a great starting point for meaningful conversation between children and adults alike, introducing meaningful topics such as race, gender, values, etc.

National Read a Book Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 5
Tuesday
2024
Sep 5
Thursday
2025
Sep 5
Friday
2026
Sep 5
Saturday
2027
Sep 5
Sunday