Before I conclude this research with a prediction about the future, I
think that it would be better to collect the most important and significant
information presented, in order to reach a more solid and sound conclusion.
First of all, let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of
each of the different book formats. A physical book can not carry or store as
much information as a digital one and it also weighs significantly more, which
means that it is not easily portable, especially when compared to a book in
digital format. However, no batteries or any kind of electric power source is
necessary to read a physical book. You can also write or make notes on a
physical book and it will also engage four out of the five basic human senses.
Books in digital format in the other hand, need batteries or some kind of power
source in order to be read, because the reader needs an e-reader device or a
computer in order to do so. However, these devices not only weigh a lot less
than most physical books, they can also store hundreds, if not thousands, of
books in them, which means that digital books are a lot easier and convenient
to carry around than their print, or physical counterparts.
There is also the rise of print of demand, which has already started and
is constantly gaining popularity. This means that in the very near future, we
may not have a throwaway paperback novel to read while waiting for a flight at
the airport or while lounging at the beach, unless we order our own, unique
copy.
Meanwhile, the market has been flooded with a wide variety of eBook
devices and eReaders. Each model usually comes with its own digital book format
and a unique selection of available book titles for the reader to choose from.
This has made a lot of people reluctant when it comes to adopting this new
technology, because they find this variety if devices and formats to be very
confusing.
Finally, there is also the development of electronic paper, which, if
successful, could revolutionize the industry. This “revolution” could very well
bring an end to all forms and kinds of printing.
Taking all this into consideration, I think it is safe to say that all
kinds and formats and books will have a place in the future. Some formats will
of course be more popular than others, but the market and the industry will be
dominated by the various digital formats, people however will be still be
seeking out physical copies of some books. In the end, in the future, just like
in the present, the true value of a book will lie in its content and not the
format it is on. I think that we now have a unique opportunity to finalize and
master the book as what it actually is in its purest form: an information
device.
