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YouGov Poll Finds 90% of Bookshop Visitors Report Improved Mood

opinion-review · 2026-10-12

A recent YouGov survey conducted by the Booksellers Association of the UK and Ireland revealed that 90% of those who visited bookshops experienced an uplift in their mood, while 84% noted an improvement in their overall wellbeing. Almost 80% acknowledged that these shops helped them take a break from social media, and 72% felt more positive during difficult times after their visits. A prior poll showed that 93% of respondents believe bookshops promote reading. The article raises questions about the 10% who did not feel better, hinting at potential issues. It also proposes a government culture card for teens to facilitate spending in bookstores. The author reflects on 'TBR' piles, urging readers to manage them and savor new books.

Key facts

  • A YouGov poll was commissioned by the Booksellers Association of the UK and Ireland.
  • The poll was reported by The Bookseller.
  • Nine in 10 people who visited a bookshop in the last six months said it improved their mood in the moment.
  • 84 per cent said the visit had a positive impact on their overall wellbeing.
  • Almost eight in 10 people said bookshops helped them switch off from social media and screen time.
  • 72 per cent said visiting a bookshop or attending a bookshop event helped them feel better during difficult times.
  • A previous survey commissioned by the trade body indicated that 93 per cent of people believe bookshops encourage reading.
  • The article suggests that if the Government’s mooted culture card for teenagers goes ahead, it should include an element reserved for spending in physical bookshops.

Entities

Institutions

  • YouGov
  • Booksellers Association of the UK and Ireland
  • The Bookseller
  • RTÉ
  • Government

Locations

  • UK
  • Ireland

Sources