Gen Z Fiction Reading Trends: Challenges of Printed Fiction Books in the Digital Age

Abstract

Current widespread internet access offers a new platform for accessing novels for readers born between 1997 and 2003 (Generation Z), who nevertheless still prefer reading fiction in printed form, according to previous research. The Thammasat University (TU) Library policy promoting equity and equality coheres with the openness if content of young adult (YA) novels that are popular on online platforms As a result, the TU Library provides YA novels to meet service user demand and expectations. This library service research examined novel reading habits of Generation Z to facilitatebudget planning, purchasing, and book format recommendations. Quantitative research was done with data gathered by survey. Samples were 393 undergraduate novel readers. Results confirmed that samples preferred reading fiction in printed form, followed by the applications (apps) readAwrite, and Joylada. The three most popular genres of fiction were detective stories, YA novels, and romance, in decreasing order of significance. Samples Gen Z students read as many as five novels weekly. Influences affecting choice of novels includes enticing and alluring cover design, and diverting contents, and suspenseful, gripping plots. Samples followed publishing bestseller lists and were impacted by reviews from noted influencers. These findings may be useful as guidelines to promote library information resource use, public relations, and future budget planning, purchasing and service provision of circulating library fiction.