The importance of reading in a nation's development cannot be overlooked. Reading activities should have a complete plan, in order to achieve the effects of the reading promotion. The libraries have reading resources and space, as well as the professional ability to play an important role in the promotion of reading activities. This paper first examined the motives and the factors affect reading behavior; Then compared several important reading surveys from the perspectives of reading habits and the use of public libraries. Finally introduced the National Reading Research Survey of Mainland China. and concluded with useful recommendations for future consideration.