by Victoria Freeny
Even the most devoted readers hit a reading slump now and then. Life gets busy, distractions pile up, or maybe nothing seems interesting enough to turn the page. If reading feels more like a chore than a pleasure, don’t worry – you’re not alone. With a few small changes, you can rediscover the joy of books.
Set the mood. Your environment can make a big difference. Grab a cozy blanket, pour your favorite drink, light a candle, or play some background music. Some readers like matching tunes to their genre – lo-fi for romance, ambient sounds for fantasy, or jazz for mysteries. If distractions keep pulling you away, try putting your phone on Do Not Disturb or a “Reading Mode” to help you focus. (You can always check your phone for interesting facts after a chapter!)
Start small. A massive 600-page fantasy might feel overwhelming when your attention is short. Try shorter novels, novellas, poetry, graphic novels, or even middle-grade books. Quick wins can remind you why reading is fun. Revisiting an old favorite can be just as effective – a comfort read is still a win!
Experiment with formats. Audiobooks and eBooks are perfect for when sitting down with a physical book feels impossible. Listen while commuting, cooking, or tidying up – the story still counts! Explore the library’s digital collection on platforms like cloudLibrary and Comics Plus. A great narrator might be the boost you need to dive back in.
Follow your curiosity. Slumps are not the time to push through books you’re not enjoying. Let your mood guide your choice: a thriller for excitement, a romance for comfort, or nonfiction to feed your curiosity. Don’t feel guilty about abandoning a book that isn’t clicking. Reading should be a joy, not a task.
Make it social. Sharing what you’re reading with friends, joining a book club, or browsing #BookTok or #Bookstagram can help reignite your excitement. If you prefer in-person connection, our library staff loves helping readers discover their next great story.
Need a little help picking your next read? Stop by the library! Whether you’re craving a cozy mystery, a heart-pounding thriller, comforting fantasy, or something completely unexpected, we’re happy to offer suggestions that might spark your love of reading again.
Your next favorite book is out there – sometimes, it just needs a little nudge to find you. Happy reading!
Victoria Freeny is Public Services Coordinator Librarian for the Adams County Library System.