Average number of books owned by children in Ireland falls to just 23
A new report from Children’s Books Ireland reveals that the average number of books owned by children on the island has fallen to 23, down from 30 in 2023. Parents identified digital devices and the cost of books as primary barriers to encouraging reading at home.
Why it matters
The decline in physical book ownership among children suggests a significant shift in cultural habits and potential long-term impacts on literacy and educational engagement.
THE AVERAGE NUMBER of books owned by a child on the island of Ireland has dropped to just 23.
The article relies on data from a charitable report and presents findings neutrally.
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