I recently had the opportunity to think about books and the forms they come in especially after going to Africa. The fact is that much of the world does not have access to an electronic book (e-book) reader or smartphone or the Internet, but can get access to a book even offline or without power, and can have a book donated to them easily. Personally I love reading books on my iPad but in much of the world they use the traditional paperback books as that is all there is and may be the only access they may have to the knowledge and enjoyment of reading. I do have to confess when I am offline or in some locations I prefer a paperback for a few reason, but still my main choice on my iPad or mobile device whenever possible.
One may argue that paperback books are not as healthy for the environment but also too consider the electricity required for e-Book readers as they take power from sources like coal fired power plants and not as recyclable as a paper book.
So while electronic books are great and convenient, we must also consider the importance of paper books. You can share, donate, and give a paper book to a child or adult in any country and they can read it and enjoy it and educate themselves or escape through the adventures in books, send them an e-book and it may be the value of handing the a dull rock.
Just something to consider as e-book formats become more commonplace that some due to cost,access to readers,and lack of Internet may not be able to enjoy a book which is an unfortunate thing.
I am torn between two worlds, what are your thoughts? Post in the comments.
Shaan, as you probably know, I’m rarely without a paperback. I love that I can read it anywhere and not worry about power. That being said, I also love having my favorites as eBooks, so I can reread them without messing up my paper copies. I do agree that the paper format is better for many readers due to economics. And they are no doubt better for the environment since they can be recycled.
I got a Kindle earlier this year and use it primarily to borrow e-books from the library. When I want to buy a book I am usually buying a paperback from one of the used book stores near work. My time between used paperbacks and the Kindle is now split about 50/50. Some people might call me a cheapskate, but now I can tell them I am being “environmentally conscious”.