In Defence of Ebooks

Overdrive are keen to sustain the relevance of libraries into the next generation of readers.  I am not convinced; the article says that libraries were about the discovery of new/rare books, and boasts at the same time that interest in overdrive services is fuelled by Harry Potter and other best-sellers.  Ebook libraries are worth monitoring nonetheless.

The Future of Books

I am a luddite; and I am proud of it.  I was given new courage last night when my wife, who reads more than me, looked up from her ipad and said: "Maybe I am getting too distracted to read."  I responded with enthusiasm, my wife had a kindle before her ipad: "Maybe we should go and buy some books."  The encroachment of digital technology on the reader's engagement with words, is something to be concerned about.  Of further concern, we might learn from the demise of Borders, is the constant measuring of book sales as a determination of a publisher's success.  Though I know profit is important, pleasure and culture are too.  Have a look at the following from DBW.

Growth for ebooks; decline for paperbacks

Digital World tells us that ebook sales continue to rise, though the rate is slowing.  Paperback sales continue to fall.  I remain optimistically luddite.  Bring me vinyl, paperbacks and a good wine; they all improve with age.  Maybe!

Print Books are best

Digital Book World consider the merits of ebooks and print books when it comes to parents and children reading together.  It would see that print books are the winners.  Go luddites.

Barnes and Noble: E-books to watch, or not

Barnes and Noble are looking to break into the UK market.  They come with significant financial backing; but their competitors are already ahead of them.  For more read Jeremy Greenfield.

The future is digital, if you have discoverability

An encouraging, yet realistic discussion of the pros and cons of digital publishing.  The author has more freedom, a greater percentage of the profits, and the very difficult task of getting noticed.  For more click here.