Generation Z swaps nightclubs for libraries: the rise of reading parties and literary TikToks

Foreign media, such as "The Telegraph", "The Guardian" and "Daily Mail", are highlighting a new trend among the younger generations. As it turns out, the "Zeds" bypass noisy events and don't waste countless hours in nightclubs. They are increasingly heading towards... the library. But it's not always just for reading.

Generation Z not only leafs through the books but also builds communities in which they express their love for literature. It seems that for the "Zeds", the library is the prime place to spend leisure time, shoot brief TikTok videos and even search for romance.

As reported by the "Daily Mail", young people are participating in "reading parties". During these, they assemble and read the same book whilst listening to music. TikTok videos showcasing "Zeds" preparing for the library - picking out suitable outfits, and filming themselves with books in the backdrop - are gaining immense popularity.

Henry Earl, a student from New York who uses the TikTok handle @henry_grey_earls, frequently shares clips from the library on his profile.

This trend not only propels the promotion of reading but also facilitates the construction of robust communities. A mutual love for literature becomes a reason for forming new friendships.

"Traditionally, we envision libraries as extraordinarily quiet spaces, and indeed some are, but upon observing Generation Z in libraries, we discerned that there are some exceptional areas for teenagers. Spacious rooms where they can participate in activities such as gaming or creating their own music," - expressed Rachel Noorda, an English Language adjunct at the University of Portland, during a discussion with "The Guardian".

"Zeds" also express their passion for books through contemporary technologies. Bookstagram, BookTok, and BookTube and are platforms across three social networks mainly focused on content concerning literature.

Here, the Generation Z discusses their emotions about the plot or an author's writing style and also advocate books to one another.

Bookstagram is a digital sphere for book enthusiasts on Instagram. BookTook caters to literature on TikTok. BookTube is a community on YouTube, where users develop videos related to books. Long-form videos facilitate a comprehensive conversation about a particular book. Each aims to consolidate reading communities.