While I have completely switched from print to digital for news and special interest magazine content, I have continued to only read books in their print form. I read a lot and the print experience provided time away from a screen. I like the ease with which I con interact with the book and appreciate seeing shelves full in my home office.
As an author I have experienced book publishing in the digital and print formats. I found the digital experience better for the data provided on engagement and download.
A few days ago I discovered a new book that I wanted to read urgently. The print edition would not be here until next month. Wanting it now, I bought my first digital edition of a book. Within seconds of purchase it was on all my devices: laptop, iPad and iPhone. The reading experience so far is better than last time I checked it out in an Apple store – years ago. If it continues this well the only thing I will miss is the reminder of books I’ve read on the shelves.
As technology evolves, more people will migrate from print to digital for all sorts of content. Reasons for sticking with print will fade as technology improves. Retailers relying on print for their future need to watch the trends with books, newspapers and magazines. Each of these three are being impacted at different paces. Newspapers are on the edge of the cliff, books are playing nearby and most magazines are some way back. However, they are all closer to the cliff than they were a year ago, two years ago …
I did not expect to enjoy digital book reading as much as I am. I only bought this particular book out of urgent necessity. I’m glad to be discovering an unexpectedly enjoyable experience.
Unfortunately you have just expressed clearly how the ” I want it now and I am not prepared to wait” society is moving to everything instant. If we are forced to do it once the habit sticks. There is not much we can do about it but we will all be desperate for a book when the techno world is sabotaged!
We will be desperate if that day comes Carol. Hey at least I held out this long.
Update: just about finished the book. I liked the experience – not what I expected.
So what you liked reading a screen, does that mean I have to follow everyone else and not be allowed to choose how I want to read or listen.
Ed I’m not saying you should follow.