Turn off the world. It's not only obvious noise like conversation and traffic that can distract you from a good read, it's the electronic intrusion as well. Finding a quiet place to read may be as easy as walking around your home and checking that everything electronic is turned off. Even though your computer may be running idle it still emits a low frequency hum, a deterrent to attentiveness. Shut the computer off, as well as the TV and your cellphone. If you're expecting an important call place the phone on vibrate and then settle back with your book.
Go to the library. According to an article in the "The New York Times," libraries have had to loosen their quiet policy in recent years to accommodate the newest generation of patrons who have a more relaxed attitude with regard to noise. However, more and more libraries have acknowledged the necessity of establishing "quiet" or "silent" rooms. If your library still does not have a quiet area, go when kids are at school and you should still be able to eke out an hour of quiet reading time.
Head for the hills. Or the valleys. Or your nearest green belt. Reading outside, away from it all, can be an experience you'll want to repeat over and over. If you're lucky enough to live in a temperate climate, reading outdoors is a past time that you can enjoy for most of the year. For those of you who are enchained by fluctuating seasons, you'll be relegated to the late spring to early fall to be charmed by this experience. Take a blanket or a fold-up chair, some snacks and water and enjoy the bliss of your green getaway.