The future of reading ...

With all the new ways to get published it seems like we're being inundated with new and fresh reading material, if you know where to look. I believe as consumers we're going to become more selective in our purchases just because of other demands on our paycheck for one thing, but also because of the increased selection. I know that sounds backward. It just that I think the increased choices will overwhelmed the average reader (of course, there are always exceptions) and cause them to sort of cocoon themselves to a comfort zone of sorts.

Being a person who loves to read I try to branch out as much as possible within the parameters of what interests me. But, because my choices are influenced strongly by my financial situation; which is basically, I usually buy one or two books, depending on the cost of my current interest, every one to two months.

What is the future of reading in your opinion? Will the average reader stay within their comfort zone? Or am I off base here?

Charlie

The librarians of our town came to Kiwanis today and said that they didn't think books would be replaced by other media and there were many choices today, but what they found most popular were mysteries.

They have a lot of programs for kids. They said the libraries in this area were becoming overcrowded with books, in spite of a lot of technology.

Carol

Charlie,
I agree with your views. Being inundated with choices can often mean no choice. Recommendations from others who share similar interests in books may cause a sale. And, as pointed out previously, impulse buying creates sales. Price is becoming a big factor.

Carol,
I believe that many people are returning to the library as a reading source. I was asked recently if my book was in the library. That doesn't help sales directly but may help with book promotion and author recognition.

My book is in the libraries in town and has been checked out. The Kiwanis group purchased six of them when they were first published and put them in the two town libraries as well as the middle school and high school libraries. Five other libraries have the book, including one in California.

Carol

I suspect we ultimately will see more paperless books for a variety of reasons. But, it will still be reading. Personally, I'm not read to give up real books and buy a Kindle, but that day may be here 10 years down the road for most people.

Malcolm

A local newscast had a bit about how the libraries are benefitting from the economic situation. People are getting library cards in record numbers, and those who had them already are making more use of them.

At least people are still reading. That has to be good for us as authors in the long run.

Ann