Is It Time To Give Up On Physical Books?

I‘ve always been quite reluctant towards eBooks. Whenever I bought a new book, whenever I finished one and put it on my shelf, I was reminded of all its qualities I could only admire. Physical books make for excellent decoration, they subtly reveal insights on their readers‘ characteristics. But a few months ago, just before I moved to a new place, I got over myself and purchased a Kindle. To be honest–this decision wasn‘t entirely voluntary. I had to get rid of some of my books either way. But it was with quite a few concerns that I started reading on an electronic device.

My First Experience With eBooks

Despite my initial reservations, I soon felt pleasantly surprised. Reading on an eInk display isn‘t nearly as bad as I had previously imagined. If you don‘t push the brightness too hard, digital texts look just like their printed equivalents. Other than I had feared, looking at this kind of digital screen didn‘t put any additional strain on my eyes; even after hours, they managed to glide naturally through the lines. One major advantage I noticed early on, is the possibility to read in the dark. Although the eyes naturally get tired from the front light at some point, it‘s a relief not always having to turn on an extra light in the evening.

Content is Instantly Available

The truly decisive advantage of eReaders lies within the instant availability of content. Whether you want to read next day‘s newspaper (which is often possible after 9 or 10 pm), follow a book recommendation without having to wait at least a couple of days, or make use of the ever-increasing digital offers provided by libraries (which, in most European countries, are almost free of charge); an electronic device extends your access to texts by a considerable degree. With new releases you don’t have to wait until they become available, eBooks are stored in unlimited quantities. You‘re guaranteed to be one of the first readers who get their hands on newly published work.

Read Whatever You Want, Wherever You Want

Using an eReader, you‘ll never have to decide between different books again for when you‘re on the go. Whether it‘s traveling, commuting, or moving between different places, all the texts you want to read come right along with you. Additionally, improved handling makes an eReader much more versatile than any traditional book. You can read in crammed trains, busy waiting rooms, or on fully-booked flights. It‘s in situations like these when a physical book reaches its limits and the advantages of a digital device truly come to light.

The Downsides

As you might have already guessed from my introduction, I truly love the look and feel of physical books. As of right now, a digital copy can‘t replace that. You can‘t put an eBook into a bookshelf when finished and it‘s much harder to skim through texts. But the newly gained freedom and flexibility is something I wouldn‘t trade it for.