New Survey on Books and Reading

Zogby:

Despite the growing availability of other formats for reading-such as online or with an e-book reader or PDA-- the vast majority of readers still like to read the old-fashioned way - 82% said they prefer to curl up with a printed book over using the latest in reading technology, a new Random House/Zogby poll shows. Women (85%) are more likely than men (79%) to say they prefer reading printed books. Reading printed books also has greater appeal among older respondents, although it is by far the preferred method among all age groups.

Just 11% of respondents said they are comfortable reading books in other formats, such as online or with an e-book reader or PDA. Men (13%) are more open than women (8%) to reading books in other formats, as are 13% of those younger than age 30, compared to just 6% of those age 65 and older.

Here are some of the other summaries from the survey:

• Most book buyers head to bookstore with a purpose - but are often tempted into unplanned book purchases
  
• Most admit to judging a book by its cover
  
• Most head online or to chains for books, but nearly half also shop at independent booksellers
  
• Readers most frequently buy books online or at chains
  
• Nearly one in four are reading more - but slightly more said they are reading less than usual
  

Read the whole thing.