Algiers – The halls of the Algiers International Book Fair may be bustling with visitors, and social media feeds overflowing with images of enthusiastic crowds, but a stark reality lies beneath the veneer of cultural celebration: Algerians, it seems, are not avid readers.
Despite the apparent success of cultural events, data reveals a concerning trend. According to the World Population Review’s 2024 figures, Algeria ranks a dismal 88th globally in reading habits. The average Algerian reads a mere 2.83 books per year – less than three books in twelve months.
This translates to approximately 65 hours spent reading annually, or less than 11 minutes per day. In stark contrast, the average American devours 17 books annually, dedicating roughly 58 minutes each day to reading. Even regional comparisons paint a bleak picture.
Within the Arab world, Algeria occupies the tenth position, trailing behind countries like Egypt (with 5.41 books per person), Syria, Lebanon, and others. The average across the Arab nations stands at 3.26 books per year, a figure Algeria fails to reach. Across the African continent, Algeria secures the eleventh spot, lagging behind South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, and several others, where the average is 4.03 books.
The disparity between the celebratory image and the grim reality raises a crucial question: How can book fairs thrive while the population seemingly neglects reading? The answer, perhaps, lies in distinguishing between a cultural event and ingrained daily behavior. The book fair is an annual occasion, a social gathering where people browse, take pictures, and occasionally purchase books. However, true reading occurs in homes, during commutes, and in moments of leisure. It is in these everyday settings that books often remain untouched.
The problem extends beyond mere statistics. The educational system often transforms reading into a tedious obligation linked to exams, severing the connection after graduation. The high cost of books also presents a significant barrier for many. The challenge now is how to change this narrative and cultivate a genuine love for reading among Algerians.
