U.S. Literacy Crisis: Study Connects Falling Reading Scores to Limited Library Use

A new study by Victorum Learning Center examines the relationship between library resources for children and literacy outcomes across U.S. states. 

The study focuses on the period between 2019 and 2022, a time when the average NAEP reading scale score of 4th-grade students experienced a decline. This decline is concerning and highlights the need to explore potential contributing factors, including the availability and accessibility of library resources.

Key Takeaways

• The average NAEP reading scale score of 4th-grade students has declined from 2019 to 2022, indicating a concerning trend in literacy levels. This decline is evident in many states, with Virginia experiencing the most significant decrease of 10 points.
• Massachusetts has maintained its position as the state with the highest average reading score in 2022, with a score of 227.
• States with higher per capita circulation of children’s books tend to have better reading scores.  For example, Utah leads the way with an average of 4.25 children’s book circulation per inhabitant, and it also ranks high in reading scores.

US States with Declining Reading Scores

The data reveal a concerning trend as the Average National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reading scale score of 4th grade decreased from 219.47 in 2019 to 215.54 in 2022, with a mean score change of -3.93. With 227 points, Massachusetts is the top state for reading scores in 2022, followed by Wyoming (225), Florida (225), Colorado (223) and New Jersey (223). All those states, except Florida, have seen their score decrease from 2019.

Reading Score by State from 2019 to 2022

Only three states, Louisiana, Alabama, and Hawaii improved their score during that timeframe, but only Louisiana improved it by more than two points. Conversely, some states have seen a significant decrease since 2019. On top of the list, Virginia lost 10 points, followed closely by Delaware (-9). Maine, Oklahoma, and West Virginia complete the top 5 and lose each 8 points.

“To help improve their children’s reading scores at home I would encourage parents to set time aside each night for everyone in the house to read or be read to,” explained Courtney Heyl, Manager of Compliance & Quality Control at Victorum Learning Center. “I would also encourage parents to ask their children to read signs as they are driving or even a menu if they are out for dinner.”

Access to Books

One of the ways to improve children’s literacy is to give them access to books. We looked at library data to measure the total annual circulation of all children’s materials per capita by state. This gives us a measure of in which state children are more likely to be in contact with children’s books from the library. Utah leads the way with an average of 4.25 children’s book circulation per inhabitant, followed by Oregon (3.92) and Ohio (3.88).

Our analysis showed that the per capita circulation of children’s books demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with reading scores. “Libraries improve reading scores in communities by providing free access to a diverse collection of books. This encourages a love for reading beginning at a young age,” said Heyl. This suggests that states where children have greater access to library books tend to perform better in reading assessments. Interestingly, the correlation between the number of libraries and reading scores was relatively weak, suggesting that the mere presence of libraries may not be as crucial as how effectively they are utilized.

Courtney Heyl suggests that parents take their children to the library as often as possible, get them their own library card to use, and encourage them to interact and ask for help from the librarians. For parents with limited access to libraries, Heyl recommends checking out the online library and speaking with their child’s school about books from the library there. “For younger children, families can enroll into the Imagination Dolly Parton Library,” she said. Heyl also strongly encourages library field trips as they “help expose children to a wide range of reading material, encourage them to become comfortable in a library setting, and help them become more excited about reading.” 

This study underscores the significant role of library resources in supporting literacy. States with higher children’s book circulation per capita tend to have better reading scores, suggesting that access to library materials is crucial for literacy development. However, the decline in reading scores from 2019 to 2022, particularly in states like Virginia and Delaware, indicates challenges that need to be addressed.

Methodology

This study utilized data from two primary sources: library statistics from the Public Libraries Survey conducted by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and reading score data from the National Center for Education Statistics’ Digest of Education Statistics. We integrated these datasets, calculated per capita metrics, and performed descriptive statistical analyses to understand the distribution of library resources and literacy outcomes across U.S. states. Correlation analysis was conducted to examine relationships between library-related variables and reading scores. States were then ranked based on key metrics to identify top and bottom performers in various categories. While this study provides valuable insights into the association between library resources and literacy outcomes, it does not establish causation and may not account for all factors influencing literacy levels.