purpose: digital reading is an important research topic in contemporary information science research. this paper aims to provide a snapshot of major studies on digital reading over the past few years.

design/methodology/approach: this paper begins by introducing the background in digital reading, then outlines major research findings.

findings: the paper demonstrates the growth of interest in information science and other disciplines in digital reading behavior. five areas are highlighted: digital reading behavior, print vs. digital, preference for reading medium, multi-tasking and learning, and technological advancement and traditional attachment.

research limitations: only major studies in the north american and european countries are covered.

practical implications:  understanding reading behavior in the digital environment would help develop more effective reading devices and empower readers in the online environment.

originality/value: the paper represents a first attempt to compare, evaluate, and synthesize recent studies on digital reading. implications for the changes in reading behavior are discussed, and directions for future research are suggested.