The NRS shows that adult South Africans read in many ways, including to gain information to communicate in addition to reading for enjoyment, and that they value reading. However, access to appropriate reading material is a major barrier. While three-quarters of South Africans have at least one book at home(including religious books and textbooks), only 37% have at least one fiction or non-fiction book.

Have some print materials at home(newspaper, magazine, religious book, dictionary or textbook)

of adults agree that reading which children improves school performance

of adults who live with children read with them( up from 35% in 2016)

Have at least one children's book

Have at least one book at home(including religious texts, dictionaries and textbooks)

Have at least one fiction or non-fiction book

A positive trend is that reading with children in the home is increasing and that caregivers understand the importance of reading with children.