French and reading: CNL 2025 barometer

The National Book Center (CNL) made public in the spring of 2025 the results of its biennial study on “the French and reading”. Consequently, This barometer seeks to shed light on what promotes or. Meanwhile, on the contrary, slows down reading by measuring the practices and perceptions of the French vis-à-vis the book and reading over the duration.

If 56% of French people declare themselves regular readers. Consequently, overall, they read less and less, since there has been a decrease of five points compared to 2023. Habits for the formats of books also change: 57% have read at least 5 paper. 15% have read at least 5 in digital format, which marks a clear increase in digital reading in ten years. We also observe a 10-minute drop in reading time per day. about 1 hour in total per week and french reading: cnl 2025 barometer more than a quarter of readers, that is to say 27% of them, admit to doing something else at the same time as they read, as sending messages.

In parallel. the audio book is gaining popularity: 32% of French readers listen to audio books, among others thanks to the important place of digital in their daily lives, which makes the practice more attractive.

We also notice a real leap in popularity for sentimental novels. in particular thanks to those of the kind of new romance. On the other hand, if they keep an important place in those under 25, manga and comics still record a drop.

Finally. 79% of readers bought new books, the practice therefore remains stable while the purchase of second -hand books has increased significantly for 10 years: 39% are concerned, compared to 26% in 2015.