Understanding Barriers and Motivators: Designing for Readers Who Struggle to Start or Complete Books

Abstract

This thesis examines the reasons many adults who wish to read find it difficult to initiate or finish books, despite having access to numerous digital reading resources. Many adults express a sincere interest in reading yet struggle to begin or finish books, even with the wide availability of digital reading tools. This study examines why that gap persists, focusing on distractions, decision fatigue, emotional pressure, and the difficulty of forming a lasting routine. Through a screener survey, individual interviews, and early prototype testing, the research documents how easily reading time is interrupted by phones, shifting moods, or uncertainty about what to pick up next. Participants emphasized the need for an environment that feels calmer than the rest of their device usage and encouragement that supports progress without pressure or comparison. Insights from this work informed design ideas aimed at reducing cognitive overload and helping readers return to books after breaks. The findings suggest that reading technology could play a more supportive role, one that protects attention, reinforces small wins, and helps readers stay connected with a habit they genuinely care about.