Thing #20 Books 2.0

Library circulation is higher than ever in this poor economic time. However, I don't know that that is a direct reflection of circulation statistics for the "traditional book". Our library's hottest ticket item is DVDs. While the traditional book is the foundation of the library, there are soooooo many other ways to retrieve information through technology. This is seen in all the ways we've learned to receive information in 23 things.

I previously worked as a manager in a college bookstore, and about 2 years ago when I was leaving this career path, we were dealing with the same kinds of questions. Publishers were making their textbooks available in downloadable formats for students. These items were difficult to market at the time because with the cost of text books, the students wanted to know they had a physical product to rely upon when in need. What happens when your internet connection goes down? Or you drop your laptop? What if the professor asks you to read Chapters 10 and 22, but the application will only allow you to download X number of pages or Chapters in any given time period?

In addition, I always had a difficult time promoting these products because my reading comprehension when using a computer is much less than if I were holding a physical book. Perhaps it is the strain on my eyes? Maybe it is because I am a visual learner? I like to write notes in the margins of pages and highlight areas in the book I want to return to. Do I think everyone is this way? NO!

But I do believe that as long as there are those of us who learn a different way, and take in information better using traditional forms of media, there will continue to be a need for a variety of formats. Online resources will not completely fade out the use of the traditional book, at least I don't foresee it in my lifetime.



What are you observing in your library about books and reading?
Do you think these Book 2.0 tools hamper or enhance one's reading experience?
Which of the sites/tools did you visit? What are they appealing features? Any features seem unnecessary or just there "because"?
Do you know of other tools around books and reading we should know about? You can add them in the Comments below and blog about them.