When I was going to school I read every night (study material of course). Many of us studied in the library too. We would often be sitting at our own cubby like desk. I can tell you from experience that all that looking down was hard on the neck. That's why many of us started using a book end. You know those things at the end of a row of books on the shelf, holding them up. They became so popular that they started to sell them in the school store.
Switching gears -
We all love to read in bed but it can be uncomfortable to do. (Same goes for studying in bed by the way...).
Your arms get tired, your neck gets sore, even your low back sometimes if you try to read on your stomach.
Just last night I was reading in bed. I've learned over the years to not be lazy and get up to get what you need. #1 is my sit back rest that goes behind me. It allows me to comfortably sit up straight in bed. Just put it up against the wall or head board and you are good to go.
#2, I put a pillow or two on my lap. This brings the book closer so you don't have to bend your head forward a lot. Then you can hold it up too. Try this so you can comfortably read without getting pain.
Additional Reading:
- The Bed Wedge - sit up against it or lay it down to put your legs up
- Get rid of neck soreness
- Are you 5'1" or under
- Neck Exercises
