Creating a Reading Space

     Reading is a fickle activity. If you are on this blog, chances are you have the keen ability to read anywhere: your car, bed, couch, floor, lounge chair, rocking chair, porch, et cetera. This quirky talent of being able to read anywhere at any time is bread out of necessity. I need to finish this chapter (who am I kidding, the whole book). I need to finish this reading because I have to study for math. I have to drive for eight hours to Florida with my extended family; therefore, I have to read. 

Is there such a thing as the perfect place to read? Is all reading born out of necessity? 

    I am not positive about the first question, but the latter question I am certain the answer is NO! All reading is not born out of having to or necessity! Even as an intense bibliophile, some of my reading is a "have to". 

As for the first question, I do not think there is a perfect place to read, but I do think there are steps to creating a "good" and effective place to read. 

Read Books You Like

    First off, reading a book you hate in the coziest and best place is never going to be enjoyable. Never read books you hate/do not enjoy. Reading, in my opinion, of course, is the best activity, but not when reading something you don't like. 

The Book's Visibility

    It's classic. The 'sore back'. The 'lie down on your side'. The 'I can only see one page'. Guilty *raises hand - both hands*. I do this almost every night. I can never pay my full attention. Whatever position you are in, the chest at least needs to be elevated. This position ensures seeing both pages of the book evenly. Whether sitting up or lying on your stomach, you must see the book to read the book. 

À Table

    Snacks and hot drinks are a bookworm's second language. Having a table next to your reading space will not only be more convenient but give you an incentive to read. Fall is coming up. Who does not want a hot cup of coffee or tea with a tasty treat while you read joyfully?

Seasonal Decorations

    Like any space, spicing things up a bit depending on seasonal changes is always welcome and usually needed. For example, as summer transitions to fall, beach balls are replaced with pumpkins, mini-fans are replaced with spiced candles, milkshakes and smoothies are replaced with hot coffee and tea. Tossing an extra throw-pillow or blanket over the back of your chair in your room or buying a candle and some string lights for your bookshelf can turn cool to cozy. 

Here are some inspiration pictures specifically for fall reading nooks; however, I think these are perfect and fit all of the aforesaid criteria.  

    I certainly am NOT an interior decorator nor psychologist and do not claim to be one in these professions, but as one of the people responsible for your literary education, I take it upon myself to make sure you read as much as possible. I believe this starts with your space. Your books' space. Your reading space. 

Overall, be comfortable. LOVE it!

Happy reading!! What does your reading space look like?