With the onset of new age technology where news and novels are just a touch away, it is often argued that printed productions like books and newspapers will no longer be purchased by people. I disagree with this statement because even with an upward trend as such, paperbacks would still be around as there are many individuals who prefer reading from a book.
To start with, reading online has gained popularity because latest news updates and digital books are accessible via various mobile applications. However, not everything online is free. For instance, digital books are to be bought at a certain rate and there are subscription charges to some magazine and news websites. On the other hand, pre-owned paper-based books can be bought at a cheaper price. They give a unique feel to the reader and do not damage eyesight which might happen when using mobile phones to read.
Furthermore, printed books and newspapers play a vital role in many people’s lives. Old people accustomed to reading a newspaper would not feel comfortable with a mobile phone in their hands to follow up with daily news. In addition, the value and demand for first edition books is never ending. For example, owning a first edition copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio is equivalent to possession of a rare artifact that costs millions of dollars. This specific feeling of admiration is hard to achieve with digital books. Thus, readers who like flipping through pages and like the feeling of a book or newspaper in their hands, will continue to buy printed goods.
To conclude, although digital platforms will transform reading significantly, printed books and newspapers will consistently be in production owing to the preferences and desires of people.
