The number of digital reading devices is rapidly growing. People are turning away from printed books and towards eBooks, especially as eBooks become more functional. In this article, 77% of respondents said that computer and Internet access is very important and 53% said that libraries should offer larger eBook selections. As I said before, in a world where we value multi-tasking and are always in constant communication with others, or feel the need to be, eBooks can better provide us with the means to read while still immersed in our busy lives. Libraries are noticing this and starting to move towards large eBook collections. Will there ever be a time when the printed book is no longer being produced? I can’t remember where, but I read somewhere that one library, I think in Texas, is on its way to becoming the first public but bookless library in the US. However, I personally always print readings out when Professors only provide them in a web format. Won’t it cost libraries more money in printing (from people like me) than buying paperbacks?
I think paper books will always have a place simply because many businesses rely on it. For example, textbook companies would not want to sell eBooks because they are cheaper and not as much money is made.
I found Thursday’s brown bag to be really interesting because I never realized the behind the scenes negotiations that go on for libraries to acquire e-Books. Whenever I have to read an e-Book, I always print out the necessary pages. My FYS professor assigned a book that was only online so I ended up printing out the entire book at the library. If libraries charge money for printing, it might just be easier to buy printed books.