Between pages and screens: trends and factors that influence Peruvian reading habits

Abstract

Digitization is transforming reading habits based on the coexistence of digital and physical formats. In Peru, this event occurs in a scenario characterized by low reading comprehension and a marked digital divide. The study aimed to identify trends and factors influencing reading practices in Peru during 2022, using a descriptive cross-sectional design and quantitative approach. Data from 43,856 participants in the National Reading Survey were analyzed, applying descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. The results showed a predominance of physical formats at the national level (65.9% on the coast, 63.4% in the jungle, 57.6% in the mountains), in contrast to digital formats, which had minimal adoption (2.8%-5.4%). At the same time, mixed formats were identified as emerging, particularly in the mountains (21.8%). In addition, a significant association was found between educational level and format preference (p<0.001). It is concluded that the digital transformation of reading in Peru is heterogeneous, which requires public policies aimed at critical digital literacy and the design of pedagogical strategies that strengthen mixed reading models.