When it comes to counting bookworms in Turkey, a different analysis comes up each year, showing both positive and negative results. There is a general belief that the reading habit among Turkish society is not as strong as other countries, yet the latest sales figures and studies give a promising look.

Last year, more than 670 million books were released to the market, based on the statistics of the Turkish Publishers Association (TPA) announced at the 9th Çukurova Book Fair that ended yesterday. Compared to 2014, a rise of almost 10 percent was observed in book numbers. The current figure gives a positive outlook, yet a detailed look into reading habits provides more interesting results.The January study of Libronet, an information technology service firm specialized in publishing technology has shown that almost 70 percent of study participants in 14 different cities read books. However, only one-fifth of them are regular book readers while one-third of the group reads books occasionally and another one-fifth rarely reads.

The main reason behind why people do not read books is not surprising, though. According to half of the survey participants, they do not have enough time for regular book reading, most because of a strenous working life. The results further show that the Marmara region has the highest number of readers.

Reading habits may also vary based on gender. More women have read books, compared to men in Turkey. The age group between 25 and 45 have the highest rate for reading books, the study also stated. Around 40 percent of the participants said they read more than 12 books in a year.

"Personal development" tops the list of things Turkish readers prioritize when reading a book, followed by "learning new things" and "reading for leisure."

It further seems that the interest in newspapers' book supplements is not so high. According to the study, 21 percent of the participants follow the book supplements, while 24 percent regularly visit book fairs. By the way, books are a popular gift choice among Turkish people, the study demonstrates.

Another category examines whether readers prefer international or local authors when visiting bookstores. More than half of the readers say they both read foreign and local names. Only one-third of the group prefers Turkish authors and 6 percent read foreign authors. Readers say reading books contribute to creativity and help people to better express themselves. Almost half of the participants believe reading books is a lifestyle. Additionally, the study demonstrated that not many readers follow autograph or discussion sessions of their favorite authors. Around 40 percent of the participants feel uncomfortable about people around them who do not read books much. When choosing a book, they look at whether they can associate the book with their life view. Half of the participants has less than 50 books at home and only 8 percent have more than 200 books.

Suggestions for bookworms

You may not have enough time for books or just pick up some via online stores. Here are some popular bookstores in Istanbul, where readers can find books in different languages, while enjoying good time.

Nail Bookstore & Cafe

Occupying a historic building in the Kuzguncuk neighborhood of Üsküdar on the Asian side, Nail Bookstore and Cafe has a rich selection of books in varied subjects from politics to history. The double-story bookshop has become a favorite spot for book and workshop sessions with the participation of Turkey's renowned authors. Remember to take your Julius Meinl coffee while browsing the shelves.

Minoa Bookstore

At Minoa, each wall is covered all the way down in books. Situated in Akaretler, Beşiktaş, the bookstore promises to become one of your favorite destinations after the first visit. A large collection of English-language books are available at the bookstore with a cafe section serving breakfast. Customers can also find music and stationary items, making it is a good choice for the start of a weekend joy.

Homer Bookstore

An important importer of American and British books, Homer Bookstore on Yeni Çarşı Street, running down the side of Galatasaray High School is where visitors can find the best books on philosophy, history, photography and fiction. Since 1995, the place is the first address of academics, students as well as bookworms.