New study says Americans are reading for enjoyment far less than they used to

As students return to class this fall, a new study shows Americans are reading for enjoyment far less than they used to. Researchers say the drop is dramatic, and it could have long-term consequences for learning and health.

The study comes from the EpiArts Lab at the University of Florida and University College London. It tracked reading habits over the last two decades.

I spoke to one of the study's authors, who said the numbers are sobering.

"We found that reading for pleasure among Americans has decreased even more significantly than we expected," said Dr. Jill Sonke, the lab's co-director. "So there is a decrease in reading that equates to a reduction of 40% in 20 years, in the past 20 years."

That decline is showing up all across ages, incomes and backgrounds, but especially amon