Young Readers Prefer Paper Books to E-Books for Pleasure Reading
In the survey, 77% who had tried e-reading previously said the majority of the books they read were in print. Younger readers especially preferred reading for pleasure on paper: 84% of six- to eight-year-olds read mostly on paper, compared with 62% of 15- to 17-year-olds. Surveyed librarians also observed that while students use e-books for school projects and research, many still prefer print books, especially for pleasure reading.
Studies point to a number of reasons why young people may prefer print to e-books, including early familiarity with print books, the tactile experience of reading on paper, and possible advantages in comprehension, particularly for longer texts.
Our teachers are using digital books more than ever before. Students are very familiar with digital content, but I don’t think they equate reading with their iPads. They like to have something in hand. (Education Week)