Will Books Become Obsolete?
Think about the last book you read. Was it a digital or a paperback one? The universe of books can be inside several paper pages with beautiful writing and a beautiful cover. But it can also be in a practical device that you can take anywhere. The magic will always be there, but when you need to choose, what’s your preference: Finesse or technology? Will books become obsolete?
The History Of Technology
Way before that you may consider, ebooks were already an idea. In 1930 Bob Brown, based on the movies that included sound (the “talkies”) imagined the “readies”, a screen that would read your book.
However, it was only in 1949 that the first prototype appeared. the Spanish school teacher, Angela Ruiz Robles, trying to solve the problem of her students, created the invention. Her students would carry heavy books around the school and this bothered her. She then invented the Enciclopedia Mecánica or the “Mechanical Encyclopedia.”. Although it was not electronic, it was the first automated version of a reading device.
It was only in 1971, that Michael S. Hart invented what’s closest to what we nowadays consider to be an ebook. He typed the whole Declaration of Independence on the computer and made it available on ARPAnet, the Internet’s precursor. He then created electronic versions of other texts.
Fun fact, the light that eReaders use to look like ordinary paper without any backlight was invented in 1997, by E Ink Corporation. This technology was then used by many eReaders companies like Amazon Kindle. The question remains in the back of our minds: will books become obsolete?
The Universe Of Books Around The World
When reading a book you can have an opulent experience. Some libraries around the world are different and have something special that enchants us. Let’s check some of the best libraries that are a part of this universe of books.
Library of Congress in Washington: House of 152 million items, this library is the second largest in the world, with 838 miles. It is situated on Capitol Hill.
Stuttgart City Library: With an excentric design, the cubic library has an open and bright interior. It became one of the most efficiently designed and dynamic libraries. With many departments such as music, arts, children’s books, and MediaTek, the all-white library is a well-organized and bright space for readers. Full of technology it is an innovative space that should be visited for sure.
Boston Public Library: The second largest library in the U.S. hosts over 24 million items. It was the first library to lend out books. The place has a unique charm and finesses with a classic design inspired by Rome and wooden floors and furniture.
It becomes harder to ask ourselves the question: will books become obsolete?
The Finesse Of A Collector’s Edition
Having a special edition of your favorite book can add a different feeling to your reading. Sometimes you won’t even read this version but its valor will make you feel like you have one of the most precious possessions possible. And it is true.
A special edition is in its essence a deluxe limited version of a regular book. Also, they are usually inspired by traditional techniques and have a pioneering element to them.
These collector’s editions have had a differential since the beginning of their production with special material, high production value, and finishes. It is truly something to be treasured. Something completely different from what technology can offer.
As an example, we have one of the most expensive books. The 1535 Coverdale Bible (First Edition of the First Printed Bible in English) costs $695,000.00 with woodcut borders and the finesse of 158 woodcut illustrations made from 68 woodblocks derived from designs by Hans Sebald Beham.
Another good example is Michael Grant, The Founders of the Western World: A History of Greece and Rome (First Edition), the most expensive edition, costing $700,011.00.
Finesse X Technology
We could start by saying that the difference between ebooks and regular paper books is just the platform. While the first one is read on a technological device with artificial light, the other is the classic printed paper.
However, the difference between the platform goes way beyond having a technological device or paper in your hands. The whole experience of reading changes. The finesse of reading a paperback book can’t be compared to the practicality of a digital book. Besides the experience, there are other things we can take into consideration.
Cost
If you are a passionate reader, you may want to invest in the digital format. Despite the fact that you will spend a little more money, in the beginning, buying your e-reader, we can say it is an investment since you’ll have cheaper books from this moment on.
Space
When choosing an e-reader, you only need space to carry that slim platform. It can easily fit into a purse or a bag. On the other hand, books can be really big and they can offer you only one reading, different from the platform that can offer you limitless books.
Collectibles
Because of the facility to get ebooks and download them, the paperback is the most valuable. So will books become obsolete? Well, you can have a copy of your favorite book on a hand-painted cover, with beautiful writing and all that jazz. Something that is impossible when talking about digital books. Paperback books can be unique and this is priceless.
Stories
Both platforms allow you to have a magical moment. Whether you are reading on paper or on a tablet, cellphone, or e-reader, you can get to the same stories and feel involved in them. You can read other types of texts, like news or blogs. If on paper you can buy a newspaper or a magazine, on the digital universe, you can access several websites. You can even visit our blog and read more posts like our article “Christmas in Vegas” about the cultural habits in Vegas during the Christmas period. Or you can read an article talking about the influence of Balenciaga’s “Fashion Extravaganza: Balenciaga”.
The Best
There is no conclusion on whether it is better to read e-books or paperback books. The universe of books is vast and we can try a little of everything, and that is magical. Will books become obsolete?
Remember, to keep the magic in your trips to the library or when you read going from one place to another, get chauffeured transportation. We will provide comfort and silence on your ride to the magical universe of books. Get a quote here.