The Future of Print Books: Print On Demand and Beyond
Will the print book market fade away in the next five years, or will printed books remain a prominent part of our literary landscape? The answer lies in a combination of Print On Demand (POD) technology, evolving retail strategies, and shifting consumer preferences.
Print On Demand: The Economic Game Changer
According to a notable prediction, print books will continue to be around, albeit dominated by POD technology. In the future, major online retailers like Amazon are expected to open kiosks in various locations such as malls, airports, and schools. These kiosks will allow customers to order print books, which will be produced and bound on the spot. This approach not only reduces costs but also enhances convenience for consumers.
The price point for POD is continuously decreasing, making it increasingly competitive with traditional print runs. While shipping and returns may add some expense to large print runs, it is anticipated that POD will soon become more cost-effective than traditional printing methods. This shift suggests a future where printed books are more accessible and affordable for everyone.
The Erosion of Physical Bookstores
Major challenges lie ahead for physical bookstores, particularly those like Barnes Noble that have faced significant traffic decline. As one source predicts, Barnes Noble's closure could have dire consequences for traditionally published midlist authors. These are authors whose work often finds a home in store racks but may struggle in a market dominated by established names and self-published authors.
The impact of POD on the discoverability of books is noteworthy. Unlike eBooks, printed books require physical shelf space. This limitation might lead to a shift in how readers discover new titles. However, given the right distribution channels, printed books still have the potential to thrive, especially in the form of collectibles. For instance, owning an original first edition of Uncle Tom’s Cabin holds significant value as a historical and cultural artifact.
The Great Paperless Society: A Vision and a Reality
Despite the potential of POD and physical books, another prevailing viewpoint is the digital transformation of all literature. Some predict that Amazon, the world's largest bookseller, will push for a ban on all printed matter, aligning with its current business model of digital media. This move would accelerate the shift towards eBooks and electronic media, aiming to usher in a paperless society.
However, it is important to recognize that there will always be a market for printed books. As these books become more than just reading materials, they transform into collectors' items and historical artifacts. Some individuals like myself cherish rare and ancient books as valuable assets.
Regarding eBooks, the technology is rapidly evolving. Future e-readers are expected to emulate the traditional book experience, featuring flexible display sheets with multiple screens. This innovation allows users to open and review multiple books simultaneously, annotate them, and even watch videos embedded within the text. It also paves the way for highly interactive content, such as dynamic novels where the narrative changes based on user choices, enhancing the reader's engagement.
In conclusion, while the print book market may undergo significant changes in the next five years due to advancements in POD and electronic media, printed books are far from obsolete. They will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many, while also benefiting from the transformative power of technological innovation in the world of literature.