Future of the Book

Introduction

As technology has evolved, so too has the nature of the book. For centuries, the printed volume reigned, but it is increasingly facing challenges from other formats. Industry data indicate that audiobooks and e-books constitute a growing segment of book purchases, forcing authors, retailers and publishers to rethink how they package content. However, it might be the unreported data that show where books are headed: A growing number of smartphone apps are hitting the market, delivering unique content, serialized publications and immersive multimedia experiences, and their readership is often not captured in sales figures. Libraries and independent booksellers are working to stay ahead of potential market shifts, reinventing themselves as community destinations that provide educational and social activities as well as books. In contrast, the ...