apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time


Survey: Can You Live Without Books?

2007-10-04openbook.jpg

A life without books? Paper ones, at least. With Ecogeek's announcement that Amazon's e-book reader, Kindle, will soon be launched, we wondered could we make the switch? But this seemingly "green" idea, the e-book, just wouldn't work for us. Sure, we can spend countless hours reading on the internet, but when it comes to some things we just need a paper copy. What do you think of e-books, and could you make the switch?

posted originally from: AT:Hometech

Thanks for the photo, darkmatter!

Tags

Surveys

Related Links

Share

Comments (5)

I just love books too much! It's a terrible addiction, that's for sure. Although I have tried audio books/books on tape, they are just not the same.

Sometimes I convice myself that if I could just stick to libraries, it would be okay. But then I see a book and I just have to have it. And hold it. And keep it forever!

I (heart) books.

posted by Marie on 2007-10-05 12:57:13
view Marie's profile

Marie, don't feel bad. As addictions go, reading is one of the best ones.

I'm not big on e-books because they totally remove the joy of leafing through pages, lying in bed and reading, etc. And I think most of us already spend way too much time staring at computer screens.

I rarely buy books, and when I do, it's ones I will keep referencing forever or want to lend out to friends. Mostly I just go to the library - cuts down on bookshelf bloat, and it's free.

posted by mmadden on 2007-10-05 13:13:30
view mmadden's profile

I do school online and all my textbooks are on the computer. It's okay for school but when it comes to recreational reading... I am a paper girl all the way. I just love holding a book and taking in the tub or in the car or in bed. I truly love reading and I keep all my very favorites and reread them often. I donate my not-so-faves to the local women's shelter.

posted by akbuilt on 2007-10-05 13:22:12
view akbuilt's profile

The e-book is coming, 'death of the book' announcement/pronouncement is now at least 8 years old and it is truly getting a bit boring. As someone who founded an online, electronic 'magazine' in the late 90's, I think both formats have their uses and offer different creative opportunities. Based on the poll above, even internet blog participants are still mightily attached to their paper books. I see nothing wrong with that !

posted by Magenta on 2007-10-06 00:42:43
view Magenta's profile

I agree with mmadden. I use my public library all the time. If they don't have it they can get it. I only buy books that I know I will read again and again. I'm slowly divesting myself of the several hundred I own by donating them to the library and other public institutions. I've also given some as gifts. Maybe the children of today will want to read electronic books but I can't imagine life without the heft of a good book on my tummy and a cup of hot tea by my elbow. -- Devoted member of Over-readers Anonymous

posted by Annieo on 2007-10-09 11:51:59
view Annieo's profile
Buy Text Ads