A reading goal is a common new year’s resolution. Whether you’re planning to read more classics or more romantasy, there are loads of benefits to a reading habit. Reading is, for many people, a hugely enjoyable activity. It can also broaden your horizons, help you connect with others and make your life richer and more dynamic.

Setting aside time to read each day will help you to smash your reading goals in 2026 – but having a special spot for reading will also help with motivation.

Making space for your reading habit

When space is short, a dedicated place for an activity like reading might seem like a distant dream – but it is possible to open up space for activities you really care about. For example, that armchair in your bedroom that seems to collect clothing… Could you commit to keeping it tidy each day so that you have a pleasant spot to curl up in? Or could you put that unused exercise bike into storage and replace it with comfortable chair that you will actually use? If you’re wondering about the cost of self-storage, we have a post that can help you work it out.

Lighting your library

Good lighting will make reading easier on your eyes, and allow you to read for longer without tiring. Daylight can be good, but consider whether you need a blind or curtain to reduce glare. A room’s ‘big light’ is not great for reading, so think about a task light for your reading nest. An uplighter with a reading lamp attachment could work well, as long as you have an electrical socket nearby. But you could also consider a rechargeable lamp, or even a light that clips to your book.

Small comforts for big reading goals

As with good lighting, a comfortable chair will keep you immersed in your book for longer. Think also about blankets and cushions – these are particularly important if your reading space is in a draughty window.

You might also want a surface for a drink and a snack. And adding a few personal touches, like pictures and knickknacks will help you make the space your own. A booktracker poster can help you record your reading adventures, or you may prefer a paper journal.

The best way to store books

The best book nooks will have all the books on hand to inspire – although see the next point about distractions!

Installing shelves will help keep your library tidy and appealing. If your shelves get too full, you risk damaging books. It can make your home hard to clean, and it certainly makes it more difficult to find the book you want to read.

When you start to run out of room, either cull your collection via a site like We Buy Books, or put sections of it into storage for a while, swapping them out when you get the urge to re-read. Remember to update your storage insurance if you do move a large number of books into storage. And while you’re at it, get a quote from Store and Insure to see if you can get a better deal on your self-storage insurance.

Eliminate distractions

Many of us do read on a screen, and it’s so convenient to have all the world’s literature at our fingertips. But devices mean distractions! A dedicated reading device can protect you from calls and also from research rabbit holes. Or you can decide to ban screens from your reading spot and add some reference books to your library for key information look-ups.

Reading goals that really work

Setting yourself some book time each day will be much easier and much more pleasurable if you have a pleasant, dedicated spot to read in.