In the article, “Why There Are Pages and Why They Must Turn,” Robert Bringhurst brings to the forefront some interesting cultural views on the significance of the printed and bound book. Bringhurst poses the question, when referring to electronic books, “Does this make printed books obsolete?” (24). He answers his own question with the response, “It does nothing of the kind…” (24). I believe this analysis of the printed book is accurate based on the fact that the term “obsolete” (24), is a strong word used to describe the future of printed material. There will always be the need for printed material in one application or another. The question that arose for myself when comparing printed books and electronic material, is whether printed publications are being marginalized by the electronic age? In 2008, Bringhurst made the statement: (in regards to the future of the electronic book), “None of these, in my opinion, has much future” (25). It is fairly obvious now (over two-years later), this analysis was inaccurate.
As the electronic book becomes more popular, and fewer books are printed and bound, access to these materials is more expensive. The average household now has at least one computer if not more, but not all families can afford this luxury. Over the past decade (with the exception of the last two-years), individuals and families that live in the United States have enjoyed an economy that has allowed for such things as the personal computer to become a standard household item. Taking into consideration the economic down-turn that is being experienced currently, and the people that even under a good economy could not afford computers, or electronic book devices, the unprinted page means less access. Local libraries are becoming less frequented by youth, who instead of becoming familiar with the Dewey Decimal Classification system, are learning how to “Google it.” Although the age of electronic material is certainly exciting, a percentage of less fortunate children are being left behind.
Works Cited
Bringhurst, Robert. “Why There Are Pages and Why They Must Turn.” World Literature Today 82.5 (2008): 20-26. Master File Premier. EBSCO. U of Oklahoma Lib. 24 Feb. 2011
Your post is very informative. I also believe that we are very lucky to have computers in our life. Many people have forgotten how to use a library. Should the internet "go down" I think many of today's students would probably have a melt-down. I do think that it is also disheartening to think about the children that are less fortunate. They are falling behind simply because they can't afford what some of us can. It is however good to know that most libraries and school systems are providing computers within their walls nowadays. I always enjoy reading your posts! Great job!
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