Luxembourg bookshop notes declining reading skills

Laurence Hilger-Weber has observed changes in reading habits at her children’s and young adult bookstore, “Bicherhaischen”, in Senningen, Luxembourg, over the last 20 years.

Hilger-Weber reports that young people are increasingly reluctant to read thick books with few pictures. She has seen a decline in reading competence and a decreasing interest in books among children aged twelve and older, noting that her young adult section attracts few customers.

The shop owner sometimes feels she must act as a psychologist to encourage reading.