Academic libraries, student wellbeing and the power of leisure reading

The world around us is driven by technology, and the simple pleasure of reading for leisure can often be overlooked. However, the benefits of leisure reading extend far beyond mere entertainment. This activity can significantly impact our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. For students, who are often inundated with academic pressures and a relentless stream of information, leisure reading offers a much-needed respite and a pathway to enhanced well-being and academic success.

Mental and emotional benefits

Leisure reading is defined as reading that we engage in voluntarily when we are free to choose what we read and where we read it. It encompasses a broad range of materials, from novels and short stories to non-fiction, magazines and graphic novels. The key characteristic is that it is self-selected and motivated by personal interest rather than academic requirement.

One of the most profound benefits of leisure reading is its ability to reduce stress. A study by Mindlab International at the University of Sussex found that reading for only six minutes reduces stress levels by 68%, a more significant reduction than that achieved by listening to music or going for a walk. This is particularly relevant for students, who frequently encounter stressors related to exams, deadlines, money and social pressures. Leisure reading allows them to escape into different worlds, providing a mental break and an opportunity to relax.

Moreover, leisure reading enhances empathy and emotional intelligence. By immersing ourselves in stories, we experience diverse perspectives and emotions, fostering a deeper understanding of others. This can be especially beneficial in a university setting, where students from various backgrounds get together. A study published in the journal Science found that reading literary fiction improves the ability to understand others' mental states, a crucial skill for building social connections and collaborative relationships.

Cognitive and academic advantages

While the primary focus of leisure reading is not academic, it indirectly supports cognitive development and academic success. Reading for pleasure improves vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking skills and even develops one’s own writing voice. According to a report by the National Endowment for the Arts, individuals who read for pleasure are more likely to achieve higher grades and are more likely to excel in their careers. For students, this translates into better engagement in an academic setting, better overall performance and a more fulfilling educational experience.

Leisure reading also stimulates imagination and creativity, encouraging students to think beyond the confines of their coursework. It exposes them to new ideas and different modes of thinking, which can inspire innovative approaches to problem-solving and research.

Social and community benefits

Academic libraries are not just repositories of knowledge; they are community hubs where students come together to learn, share, and grow. Expanding leisure reading collections can enhance this community aspect through Bibliotherapy. By offering a diverse array of reading materials, in both print and electronic format, libraries can create inclusive environments that cater to varied interests and backgrounds. This fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students to engage more deeply with the library and each other.

Libraries can also organize book clubs, bookbug sessions, author talks, and reading groups centered around leisure reading, further enhancing social interaction and community building. These activities not only promote reading but also create opportunities for students to discuss ideas, share experiences, and build meaningful connections.

Supporting student wellbeing

Leisure reading is a powerful tool for enhancing student wellbeing, offering numerous mental, emotional, cognitive, and social benefits. By promoting leisure reading, academic libraries can ensure that students have the advantage of enhanced wellbeing, creativity, and academic success.

As Mark Twain aptly said, "The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read."

Wondering where to start?

Just like any other library collection, building a leisure reading one takes time, dedication and resources. Want to learn more about ways libraries are exploring the power of leisure reading and collection development? Hear what Kimberly Bryce, Resource Librarian Acquisitions and Collections, Glasgow Caledonian University and Andrew Knight, Acquisitions and Content Services Manager, Imperial College London had to say during the recent webinar Curating with Care: Harnessing Collection Development for Mental Wellness in Academic Libraries.

If you’re considering starting or expanding your library's leisure reading or wellness collections, the team at ProQuest^™, part of Clarivate^™, recommend the following Curated Topics to help you promote cultural enrichment, relaxation, and personal growth within your institution:

• • Leisure Reading 2024 - Selection of recent fiction and nonfiction titles for general and leisure reading.
  • Influential Figures' Book Choices - Explore books featured on reading lists curated by politicians, business leaders, artists, activists, sportspeople, and prominent global figures.
  • Science Fiction - Featuring award-winners, classics, and bestselling authors, this collection spans over a century of the best in science fiction and is the perfect leisure reading companion to our new Space Science & Exploration Collection.
  • Simon & Schuster's 100th Anniversary collection - Simon & Schuster marks 100 years with the top 100 titles across genres, showcasing notable fiction, nonfiction, and recent works by influential authors.
  • Penguin Random House Bestsellers - Showcasing the finest literature and popular reads from one of the world’s leading publishers, this collection includes award winners, modern classics, and bestselling authors for Spring 2024.

Explore our curated selections on LibCentral, OASIS, and Rialto. Save time and effort with Demand-Driven Acquisition (DDA). Our team can help you set up a leisure reading DDA profile, allowing your users to drive title acquisitions based on usage and popularity.

Get help setting up a leisure reading DDA profile for your institution today.