Why Readers Still
Love the Printed Book
by A.E. Albert
“Lovers of print are simply confusing the plate for the food.” - Douglas Adams
Print Vs. eBook
It's the digital age, yet print books still have a foothold in the publishing industry. Mind you, this is because print books have a foothold in the hearts of readers.
All readers have the same argument in defense of the hardcopy. We love the empirical experience. Holding that book in our hands, running our fingers over it's smooth and sometimes pulpy surface.
Perhaps it's inhaling that delicious new book smell. Or, just as intoxicating is the aroma of a book that has been caressed by many hands; feeling a nostalgia that is not our own.
Personally, I prefer used books. You can almost feel the intangible imprint left by it's previous reader.
Some hate the smell of an old book. But that's precisely what you're smelling, time. And that's probably what I love the most about them.
Every time I venture through the ancient streets of Rome, that is the smell permeating from the very foundations of the structures lining the streets.
At first I found it off putting. But once I discovered what it was, I found it almost comforting. Time is, after all, the ultimate observer and teller of tales.
It's Not Just Poetic Reasoning
Of course, there are less romantic claims in defence of the printed book.
People just like receiving something tangible in exchange for their money. Then there is the sense of accomplishment the reader relishes as they watch themselves steadily make their way to the back cover
The Digital Invasion
As much as I despair in saying this, romantic sentiments will not be an effective road block for progress. I don't now how long it will take, but eBooks will take over the publishing market.
It's cost effective, ecological and they are even invading libraries. Not to mention, they're easy to store and you can purchase them from the comfort of your living room.
So Why Do We Still Love Print Books?
I think it's because digital books are like long distance relationships; there's something missing.
The most satisfying and intimate relationships are the ones that allow us to connect with others emotionally, intellectually and physically. A reader feels this affinity with that book in their hands.
And the relationship between a reader and their book is nothing short of a love affair.
What is your read of choice, print or eBook? Let me know.
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I love print, Aimee. Because it smells right, it feels right in my hand, and if I happen to fall asleep, I won't break my nose as it plummets into it, lol. My Kindle, on the other hand, would be less forgiving ;)
ReplyDeleteI agree. And a book doesn't break if you drop it!
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