E-books versus Paper books.

Source: http://usedbooksblog.com/blog/category/book-statistics/

 

Source: http://typedesk.com/2009/01/24/e-books-vs-paper-books-whats-your-take/

In this advancing era of technology, it has come to no surprise that almost everything, from shopping to paying your credit cards, has gone digital. Now, the debate has come, whether books, or more specifically, the-old fashion print/paper books will become obsolete, overtaken by the E-books?

In a report by Deborah Cornwall, there are many opinions by people who are working in the print industry, the digital industry and even opinions by the readers and users. In this much debated discussion, many seem to believe that publishers are left with no choice but to go online as they feel that it is their only option is surviving in this industry. Thanks to the launching and introduction of the Amazon’s Kindle Book and the all new Apple iPad which enables the use of E-books available to the masses has been quite a huge hit according to Steve Jobs from the Apple Computers. Many feel that the existence of the E-books is a revolution which will soon overtake the print media but there are still who beg to differ. Though people like Candace Gray who owns a Kindle, believes that this revolutionary object has made things much easier and exciting for her, Louise Adler still believes in collecting books, which are precious and the feeling of keeping this paper, printed books should be cherished. 

In an article written by Raz Godelnik, there is still the debate over which of the two are better in terms of environmental. The author poses two possible outcomes, the paper/print books will and has an effect on the environment as there is a need to cut down trees for paper but the author also argues that the use of E-books also has its’ disadvantages. E-books uses electricity and power, and the disposal of electronic gadgets does harm the environment as well with its’ chemicals and plastic containers. In my opinion, I still believe in having a hardcover paper book as there is a nostalgic feeling in reading and actually turning the pages of a book. Besides, any old and unwanted paperback books can always be recycled.

References

Cornwall, D, 2010, 'E-Books popularity on the rise',abc.net.au, viewed 14 November 2010, < http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2010/s2849989.htm >

Godelnik,R, 2010, 'Is E-reading really greener?', Independent Book Publishing Associations, viewed 14 November 2010, < http://www.ibpa-online.org/articles/shownews.aspx?id=2984 >