Books Remain the Primary Material for Reading
Despite a decline in overall reading levels, particularly for printed materials over the past decade, 69.6% of literate Mexicans still engage in reading, according to the 2024 Módulo sobre Lectura by INEGI (National Institute of Statistics and Geography).
The reading trends have significantly changed, especially due to societal digitalization. In 2024, books remain the primary material for reading among Mexicans, with 41.2% of readers consuming them in either printed or digital formats.
Mexican readers averaged 3.2 books read per year, with entertainment being the primary reason for reading, though educational and cultural motives also play a role.
Literature Leads as the Most Read Genre
Literature is the most read genre, with 40% of readers falling into this category. Following closely are self-help, personal development, religious books, and some academic or professional texts.
Other Reading Materials
Newspapers and information materials have seen a significant decline in consumption. Only 21.7% of readers consume magazines, and a mere 17.8% read newspapers.
On the other hand, digital native materials like blogs or web forums have become the second most consulted reading material, with 39.4% of Mexicans regularly engaging in these online spaces.
Benefits of Reading
Reading is a crucial tool for the holistic development of individuals. According to INEGI’s reading module, reading enhances cognitive skills such as concentration, comprehension, and memory while enriching vocabulary and verbal/written expression.
UNICEF highlights that early reading in children promotes their linguistic, emotional, and social development. Reading in childhood not only improves language comprehension but also fosters creativity and emotional bonds.
The OCDE, through the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), has shown that 15-year-old students who read regularly, especially extensive books, demonstrate superior academic performance—equivalent to an additional year of schooling in reading comprehension.
This habit also enhances the ability to differentiate between facts and opinions and integrate information from various sources, skills vital in the digitalization era.
For adults, reading also brings significant benefits. A study by the University of Sussex found that reading can substantially reduce stress due to brain connections that provide a break from personal contexts.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What percentage of literate Mexicans engage in reading? A: 69.6%
- Q: What is the primary material for reading among Mexicans? A: Books
- Q: What genre is the most read in Mexico? A: Literature
- Q: How has reading material consumption changed? A: Digital materials like blogs and forums have become more popular, while newspapers and magazines have seen a decline.
- Q: What are the benefits of reading? A: Reading enhances cognitive skills, improves language comprehension, and reduces stress.
