Quote:
Originally Posted by TheJohnNewton
Are people highly attached to a bunch of bound paper with ink smudges on it or to engaging intellectually with the CONTENTS of a book? I'm putting my money on the latter. I also think most people will have to actually use an ebook reader before they really understand the benefits and how easily they can ditch those cumbersome old reams of ink smeared paper.
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Speaking personally, both.
I have about 3,500 ebooks. I have a corresponding number of paper books, and likely rather more, since I haven't tried to count heads in a while.
An ebook engages one sense: vision.
Depending upon the book, a paper book is also a tactile experience, with subtleties in binding method, covers, and interior paper stock used, such as the embossed covers used on some paperbacks and hardccovers.
A paper book can also be a multi-dimensional experience. Consider the "pop up" book, not always aimed at children, where opening the book to different spreads erects different three-dimensional structures. Or the books printed on light card stock, where the intent is to be able to punch out pieces printed and scored on the page to construct something.
For that matter, a paper publication can be olfactory as well. You don't normally see it in books, but thinqs like inserts with embedded fragrances are common materials in women's magazines to promote new scents made by perfumers.
If all you are concerned with is
seeing content, and size and things like realistic color reproduction aren't factors, ebooks may be just the ticket. For other things, paper may be the only choice.
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Dennis