When we come into(convert) the Church, we are presented the bible...which we kiss, as a sign of reverance.
The Divine Office , which we are encourge to participate in at home, is mostly scripture.
Many of the anicent devotions of the Church, such as Lectio Divina, are based on meditating on scripture.
Lectio Divina - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Back before the masses, could read...the Church, illustrated, scripture thru different medias...art, stain glass windows, music, and statues.
Probably what you are referring to, is during a transitory time in Church history, as a result from a backlash, from the Protestant Reformation, and the confusion, that followed....people were discouraged, which differs from forbidden to read scripture. However, taking the Church's 2000 year history, this is but a fleeting moment, in time.