In 2009, eBooks only made up 2% of the book sales market, but by 2012 that number had risen to 23%.
Nowadays, traditional bookstores are slowly disappearing, although some major companies such as Barnes & Noble are still holding strong.
However, why is this happening? Are people reading less, or is there simply an alternative method?
That’s where eBooks come into play! With the increasing popularity of Kindle and downloadable books, there’s no need to have bulky books when they can all be stored on one device.
But did you know that the concept of eBooks has been around since the 1930s?
Even the technology for eBooks has been around for about 50 years, but it wasn’t until this century that it was developed in a convenient and portable format.
There are pros and cons to both eBooks and physical copies of books, so the choice ultimately depends on what works best for you!
Whether you need help deciding which option to choose or you already have a preference, the history of eBooks is a fascinating story that may enhance your appreciation for this incredible invention!
FAQ
What are eBooks?
eBooks, or electronic books, are digital versions of traditional print books that can be read on electronic devices such as e-readers, tablets, smartphones, and computers. They typically come in formats such as PDF, EPUB, MOBI, and AZW.
When were eBooks first introduced?
The concept of eBooks dates back to the 1930s, when a Spanish teacher and writer, Ángela Ruiz Robles, invented the “Mechanical Encyclopedia”, a device that could store books on reels and display them on a screen. However, the first commercially successful eBook was the Rocket eBook, released in 1998 by NuvoMedia.
What is the current state of the eBook market?
The eBook market has seen significant growth in recent years, with the global eBook market size expected to reach $23.12 billion by 2027. The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the adoption of eBooks, as more people have been staying at home and using digital devices to read books.
What are the advantages of eBooks compared to traditional print books?
eBooks offer several advantages over traditional print books, including convenience, portability, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. With an eBook, you can carry thousands of books in one device, adjust the font size and style, and purchase books at a lower cost compared to print books. eBooks also offer accessibility features such as text-to-speech and screen readers, making them more inclusive for people with disabilities.
Zayn Anderson is a prolific writer with a passion for uncovering the world’s intriguing facts. Armed with an insatiable curiosity, he delves into various subjects, from history and science to nature and technology.