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While totally going back to paper books is unlikely (barring an EMP), I have noticed that my reading habits swing back and forth like a pendulum between e and p. I'll go on a kick and read primarily ebooks and then go back to paper and vice versa. The rise in ebook prices to the point that frequently the hardback is cheaper has influenced this trend in my reading habits. It helps that I have accumulated a massive library of unread paper books (having good used book stores and frequent library sales makes it easy). I've recently put together a physical library with wall to wall shelving (thank you Borders!) in my basement, so I can see swinging back to paper books for a while. The main issue with E is that the long term durability of the electronic books you "own" is still unknown. For public domain books there is no question. For recent books, it remains to be seen how individual purchased books will endure. I don't think it is reasonable to judge these matters by the relatively small sample of committed enthusiasts we see on Mobileread. I doubt most members of the general public will be nearly as disciplined as us when it comes to de-drming and backing up our books to "future proof" them. And then comes the issue of long term archiving and upkeep to avoid the decay of the physical media. I have MMPBs from the 50's that are still perfectly serviceable. Will I (or my heirs) be able to access my Jim Butcher ebooks in 2061? How about my electronic collection of Fritz Leiber's works?
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