19 Effective New Years Resolutions for Book Lovers (2026)
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If you’re anything like me, the dawn of a new year means one thing: more books! Yes, it’s that time again, when we bid farewell to old reading lists and welcome in the new.
And what better way to kick-start 2025 than with some refreshing and motivating New Years resolutions for book lovers?
Back in 2020, I made a resolution to read more books. Armed with a list longer than “War and Peace,” I was determined to tackle a literary mountain that would put Everest to shame.
But as the months went by, I realized that a reading resolution is not just about ticking off titles or reaching a certain count. It’s about the journey each book takes you on.
Some stories are perfect for a cozy Sunday with a hot cup of coffee, while others make great companions for the daily commute.
So, for 2025, I encourage you to savor every word, every page, and every stolen moment with your book.
Let’s make our New Year’s resolution about quality, not just quantity. Because isn’t that what true book love is all about?
Whether you’re exploring new genres, stepping out of your reading comfort zone, or simply aiming to read more books this year, I’ve got you covered.
So, fellow book lovers, fasten your seatbelts and embrace the new year with a renewed passion for reading!
Reading resolutions
Reading resolutions are more than just pledges to turn more pages. They’re personal challenges that encourage us to explore different perspectives, discover new ideas, and broaden our understanding of the world.
Every book we pick up is a chance to learn something new, to empathize with a character’s struggles, or to lose ourselves in a gripping narrative. They push us out of our comfort zones, introducing us to genres we might not otherwise have considered.
So, let’s see our reading resolutions not just as goals, but as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. After all, isn’t that one of the best parts of being a book lover?
I’ve got some ideas to get you started on tracking your goals.
Bookish New Years Resolutions Ideas
1 | Find more time to read
Consider setting achievable reading resolutions for the year ahead. It could be as simple as finishing one book per month or exploring a new genre every quarter.
Remember, the goal here isn’t the pace or volume, it’s about consistently carving out time for yourself and the books waiting on your shelf or in your e-reader.
2 | Use a bookmark
It may seem like a small thing, but using a bookmark can make all the difference in keeping track of where you left off in your book.
Plus, there are so many cute and creative bookmarks out there to add some fun to your reading experience!
3 | Join a book club
As we enter the New Year, it’s the perfect time to think about some bookish New Years resolutions for book lovers. How about setting a goal to join a book club?
It’s not only a wonderful opportunity to delve deeper into your favorite novels, discuss perplexing plots, and share insightful thoughts but also a fun way to meet fellow book enthusiasts.
Diversify your reading list, engage in stimulating conversations, and make lasting friendships—a book club can offer all these and much more!
4 | Read books from different genres
To really give your book resolutions some gusto, consider setting a goal of a specific number of different genres you want to explore this year. Maybe you’re a die-hard romance reader – how about diving into a historical fiction or fantasy novel?
Or perhaps you’re hooked on thrillers? Why not give poetry or memoir a whirl? By diversifying your reading list, you’re not only broadening your literary horizons but also challenging your perception and understanding of the world.
So go ahead, add ‘genre-hopping’ to your book resolutions, and become a well-rounded reader. You might surprise yourself!
5 | Read only books that you enjoy
Life’s too short to trudge through pages that feel like a slog, right? We’ve all been there – you’re halfway through a book, the plot’s going nowhere and you can’t remember why you picked it up in the first place. It’s like being at a party where you don’t know anyone – awkward and not much fun.
So, why stick around? There’s no “Book Police” to slap you with a fine if you quit. There’s a whole library of exciting reads out there waiting to capture your imagination and whisk you off to new worlds.
So, chuck the book that’s not sparking joy and dive into one that sets your heart aflutter. Your reading time is precious – spend it wisely!
6 | Organize your bookshelf
So, as you’re considering your New Years resolutions for book lovers, think about that satisfyingly organized bookshelf. This year, why not take some time to declutter and arrange your books in a way that sparks joy?
You can sort them by color, author, or genre – whatever suits your fancy. The goal here is to create a cozy corner that makes you smile every time you’re about to embark on a new literary adventure.
7 | Read a book you’ve always meant to read
We all have that one book that’s been sitting on our TBR list for years. Make this the year you finally read it and cross it off your list!
Whether it’s a classic that everyone raves about or a modern bestseller that you’ve been meaning to pick up, give yourself the gift of finally diving into that book you’ve always wanted to read. Who knows, it might become your new favorite!
8 | Never be without a book
A simple but effective New Years resolution for us book lovers is to always have a book on hand. Be it a physical copy tucked away in your bag or an ebook ready to go on your phone, being prepared means you can sneak in some reading whenever you find those rare spare moments.
This has been a total game-changer for me! It’s been such a big help in achieving all my bookish goals.
9 | Read the book before you watch the movie
Books are often adapted into movies or TV shows, but they usually can’t capture all the details and depth of the original story. Challenge yourself to read the book first and then compare it to the adaptation.
It’s a great way to appreciate the different storytelling mediums and you might just find that the book is even better than the movie.
Plus, it’s always nice to have bragging rights of being a true book fan! 😉
10 | Shop local bookshops
Support your local bookshops and discover new books by browsing their shelves. Plus, you’ll be supporting small businesses and contributing to your community.
There’s just something special about stepping into a cozy independent bookstore and discovering hidden gems you wouldn’t have found otherwise. And who knows, you might even strike up a conversation with fellow book lovers or the bookseller themselves!
So instead of adding to your online shopping cart, take a trip to your neighborhood bookstore and see what treasures you can find.
11 | Keep a record of all the books you finish
Create a reading log or use an app to keep track of all the books you’ve read. It’s a great way to look back on all your favorite reads and see how much you’ve accomplished.
I’ve created a Free Printable Book Journal just for you. It’s perfect to jot down your thoughts, favorite quotes, and even those “ah-ha!” moments that make reading so magical.
Don’t let those memorable moments slip away. Sign up below and get your free journal now!
12 | Decrease screen time
Why not make ‘read more books’ one of your New Years resolutions for book lovers?
Instead of scrolling aimlessly through social media before hitting the hay, why not grab a book and read for 20 minutes? Not only has reading been proven to reduce stress and help you sleep better, but you’ll also be smashing through your TBR list.
13 | Create a daily reading habit
Set aside a specific time each day to read, whether it’s during your lunch break or before bed. Making reading a part of your daily routine will help you stay consistent and make progress in your reading goals.
Plus, it’s a great way to unwind and destress after a long day. You can track your daily reading with my FREE printable journal here.
14 | Try an audiobook
If you’re always on-the-go or have trouble finding time to sit down and read, give audiobooks a try. You can listen while commuting, doing chores, or even exercising. They’re a great way to fit reading into your busy schedule.
Plus, many audiobook platforms offer free trials or have affordable membership options. So why not give it a go? You may discover a whole new way to enjoy books!
15 | Focus on reading only from your TBR
We all have a never-ending TBR list, so instead of constantly adding new books, focus on reading from your existing list. This will help you stay organized and make sure you don’t forget about those hidden gems already waiting to be read.
Plus, it’s a great way to save money and not get overwhelmed by constantly adding new books.
16 | Limit book buying
As tempting as it may be to buy every book you come across, try limiting yourself to purchasing only a few books at a time.
This will not only save you money, but it will also prevent your unread book collection from getting out of hand. Plus, it’ll give you time to actually read the books you do buy before adding more to your shelves.
17 | Join the bookish community on Bookstagram
Looking for some more New Years resolutions for book lovers? How about diving into the vibrant and interactive world of Bookstagram?
This fun community on Instagram is a treasure trove for book lovers, offering opportunities to follow accounts that feature captivating books, participate in exciting book challenges, and connect with fellow readers from across the globe.
Not only will you discover intriguing new reads, but you will also make new friends who are just as passionate about books as you are. Beware though, your TBR may get out of hand.
18 | Create a cozy reading nook of your dreams
Find a comfortable spot in your home, whether it’s a corner of your bedroom or a dedicated reading room, and make it your ultimate reading haven.
Add some cozy blankets, pillows, and maybe even a reading lamp to create the perfect atmosphere for getting lost in a great book.
Don’t feel like you need to spend tons of money or convince your partner to build you a custom bookshelf.
Instead, start collecting small pieces slowly throughout the year and by the end, you’ll have a personalized and cozy reading nook that will make all your book-loving dreams come true.
So go ahead and start brainstorming ideas for your own unique reading space. I love jumping on Pinterest to get inspired.
19 | Support your local library
Don’t forget about your local library! They offer a wide selection of books, often for free, and also host book clubs, author events, and other fun activities. Show your support by borrowing books from the library instead of always purchasing them.
You can also donate books you’ve finished reading to give back to your community.
Plus, libraries are a great place to meet other book lovers and discover new reads through their curated collections and recommendations.
So don’t forget to show some love to your local library!
Did you discover your next New Years resolutions for book lovers?
As we bid farewell to this year and welcome the next, it’s the perfect time to set some bookish goals for ourselves.
Whether it’s expanding your reading list, decluttering your bookshelves, or engaging with fellow book lovers on Bookstagram, there are countless ways to make the coming year a fulfilling one for your inner bibliophile.
So, ready to turn a new page?
Remember, every New Years resolutions for book lovers brings you one step closer to the best version of your reading self. Here’s to a new chapter full of exciting reads, cozy reading nooks, and unforgettable literary adventures.
Happy New Year, and happy reading!
PS. If you need a good laugh, check out Penguins Teen’s, meme-filled New Years resolutions for book lovers.
