Why printed books are still in demand

The popularity of e-books today is undeniable. They are convenient to take with you (and the entire library at once), they are inexpensive, or even completely free. However, over the past few years, sales of e-books have been gradually falling, giving way to traditional paper publications. What is the reason?

A printed book is a great gift

Since childhood, we remember that a book is the best gift. And really, how can you resist a good, high-quality printed publication with beautiful illustrations and a bright cover. Whatever it is: a classic of fiction or a book of recipes.

A printed book with so-called augmented reality can be a particularly impressive gift. In such a book there are special marks or areas of the image that are scanned by a smartphone, and the illustrations on the pages “come to life”, “pronounce” the text, and move.

Variety of fonts

Perhaps not everyone pays attention to fonts or layout, but the overall design of a book greatly influences readability and attractiveness every page. This is quite important, especially in childhood, when a love of literature is instilled. E-books are quite monotonous in this regard - the choice of fonts is very limited.

The ability to make marks

As children, many of us folded corners, although this was not very welcome. But nevertheless, in a printed book it is very easy not only to make a bookmark (this can also be done in an electronic book), but also to mark a favorite place or a place that you want to re-read again, write something in the margins or underline.

During While reading an e-book, others may think that you are surfing the Internet or checking social networks. By reading a printed book, you set a great example and involve other family members in this interesting activity.

In addition, it is generally believed that it is more beneficial for children to read on paper. Radiation from monitors (even modern ones) has a worse effect on vision. At the same time, a paper book is better remembered and other cognitive resources are used. Reading becomes more conscious.

Printed books are easier to share

Bookcrossing tents are found almost everywhere: in parks, public places and even in transport. If you read a book, pass it on, and take someone else’s for yourself. It is especially interesting when it comes to inexpensive publications. Or when you don’t really know what you want to read, but here’s a choice. Printed books on shelves at home or in libraries also continue to be attractive and invite perusal. Electronic devices don't work like that

Smell and tactile sensations

An electronic book does not give you the opportunity to flip through the brand new rustling pages or feel the unique smell of printing ink. Old, well-read books also have their own charm: memories emerge, new ideas appear. Interestingly, scientists became interested in the smell of books and conducted a study. 79 visitors to a museum and art gallery in Birmingham were invited to smell the 1928 edition and talk about their associations. Most often, survey participants named coffee, antiquity, wood - old books are associated with these things.

Object of antiquity and art

Looking at ancient books that have survived centuries in libraries or museums is a special delight. An e-book is unlikely to ever become so valuable that it can be passed down from generation to generation or stored in archives. Who knows how operating systems and file formats will change in the future?

So, despite all the convenience of electronic books, printed books continue to be published, printed, sold and bought. They offer a completely different level of tactile and visual sensations and give more positive emotions.