People have been talking about the “end of paper” since the beginning of the computer age. Computers were supposed to eliminate the need for paper in offices altogether. However, the opposite has happened. Due to the ease of printing copies of documents, more paper is consumed today than ever before in human history.
The Future of Paper Books
What is the future of traditional printed books in a society that is constantly becoming more and more reliant on technology? Is the end of paper books a looming destiny? The majority of people still claim that they prefer the feel of holding a real book in their hands. Despite this, book digitization is a growing industry. As people get more used to living in a technology-driven society, the world of books is sure to catch up.
Benefits of Digitized Books
The variety of benefits offered by digitization cannot be overlooked. First, the environmental advantages are outstanding. Millions of trees could be saved every year, not to mention the pollution that is caused by manufacturing and transporting paper books. Digitized books are more convenient, portable, and cheap to produce. They are easier to obtain (never out of stock), easier to share, and generally accessible by more people.
Drawbacks of Digitization
However, there are also disadvantages of digitized books. As mentioned above, people simple like the way a paper book feels in their hands. This is probably the biggest obstacle today and the reason why digitization has not already caught on more. Also, some people are afraid that the poor and less technologically inclined will be left behind in a world with no paper books. Not being able to afford a device to read digitized books in a world where they are the only option would be devastating to the poor community.
Technology for Reading Digitized Books
New portable methods of reading digitized books are showing up in the market. In Japan, it is already not unusual for people to read books on their cell phones. Some Americans also already read digitized books on their PDA’s. Apple’s Kindle and Sony’s E-Reader are portable devices made specifically for reading digitized books. These electronic gadgets promise to boost the demand for this industry. Reading on them is supposed to be more pleasurable than on a regular computer screen. Carrying around a large number of books is much more convenient in digitized form.
Libraries, Book Digitization, and the End of Paper Books
What will happen to public libraries if book digitization really takes off? This is another big concern. However, many people believe that libraries would actually be improved by focusing on digitized books rather than paper books. The transition would be difficult, but library operations would likely be cheaper in the end. Patrons would never have to wait for a book that has already been checked out.
The masses might not be ready to give up their paper books, and they may never do so entirely. However, there is little doubt that digitized books are going to become the norm within the next few decades.