Reading Is Firm Festive Favourite

22nd December 2012

Reading for pleasure is a favourite festive pastime for many Scottish people.

Fifty-two per cent of Scots who took part in a recent poll said they intend to curl up with a book over the holidays.

The poll followed Book Week Scotland, the first national celebration of reading held earlier this month, which encouraged everyone of all ages to enjoy the world of the written word.

Scottish Government Minister Humza Yousaf said:“This survey reveals that reading for pleasure is one of the top three activities on Scots’ to-do lists over the Christmas and New Year break.

“People in Scotland have a tremendous appetite for books and reading, and it builds on our nation’s reputation for literary excellence and our rich creativity.

“This poll is a good indicator that the Scottish Government’s firm commitment to increasing learning through promoting reading, chimes with what the people of Scotland want.”

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1073 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between December 14-17, 2012. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Scottish adults (aged 18+).

Survey respondents were asked which activities they were likely to undertake in their spare time between Dec 24 and Jan 3 (and were able to select multiple options). 77 per cent said they would watch TV, 62 per cent said they would visit friends and family, and 52 per cent said they would curl up with a book.