Are ebooks replacing print books?
Sources:
Experts generally agree that while ebooks have gained popularity, they are not replacing print books. Both formats have their unique appeal and place in the market.
-
Rise and Plateau of Ebooks: Jamie Byng notes that the rapid growth of ebooks around 2009-2010 created a belief that digital would soon dominate print. However, this growth plateaued after a few years and even slightly declined, with ebooks now making up around 12-15% of the market. He attributes part of this plateau to reader fatigue from screens and improved production values in physical books 1.
-
Print's Enduring Appeal: David Sax highlights that initial predictions about ebooks completely overtaking print did not come true. Despite their convenience, ebooks' market share has been shrinking, with many people returning to or continuing to prefer physical books. He suggests that the tangible value of books as objects was underestimated 2.
-
Diverse Reading Preferences: Both Gary Arndt and Ezra Klein point out the differing experiences between ebooks and physical books. Arndt emphasizes that technology has increased the availability of both formats, while Klein mentions that certain aspects of paper reading are irreplaceable and that physical books continue to thrive alongside digital formats 3 4.
-
Specialized Ebook Uses: Tim O'Reilly mentions that in specialized areas, such as technical and professional fields, ebooks maintain a significant presence due to their convenience and accessibility, especially with online subscription services 5.
Thus, while ebooks provide convenience and digital access, print books' physical and tactile attributes ensure they remain a cherished and enduring part of the reading experience.
RELATED QUESTIONS-
