So what role do books play in your fictional world? Is everyone literate? Is reading encouraged? Are there certain books which are not allowed to be read except by the privileged few and, if so, why and what books are these?
What other forms of literature exist in your setting? Papers? Magazines? Both? Are editors and writers generally free to write as they want to or are they all under the shadow of an oppressive government? How are any restrictions beaten? And for those willing to co-operate with an oppressive government, show why. Is it just about money? Do they betray those writers who won't co-operate?
What does the general populace think about books and reading? Have a attitudes changed, for better or worse, over the past 50 years? And are books easy to obtain? Is the average wage enough to ensure most people can buy books if they wish to do so?
I think after asking all those questions, it is time to stop taking books and the literacy rate for granted. I would love to see our world in such a state that all get a good education, regardless of gender, background etc. Likewise I would like to see 100% literacy worldwide. I hope and pray for success for all those trying to achieve these things.