So, I was listening to a piece on CBC Radio about the death of print and how electronic books are becoming more popular than the publishing industry ever thought possible. The whole idea perplexes me because it’s like comparing your PSP to your PS3 game system.

eBooks are a clever invention — no doubt about that — but they are most useful in certain instances. For example, I’m traveling to several different destinations for business and barely have enough room for my clothes and toiletries, let alone a stack of books, iPad, Kindel, et cetera, obviously, come in super handy. You can carry as many books with you as you like.

BUT, at home, on the couch, just relaxing… out comes the printed book. Why strain your eyes in the comfort of your own home? And, you can share that book with whomever you wish. eBooks have digital protection, so, unless you’re handing over your device, it’s a no go.

Yes, middle-aged to older members of the community have been programmed to appreciate the printed word — cherish it even and treat it with respect. But, anyone that’s ever edited copy or tried digesting large volumes of type on ANY screen, at any size, will tell you it’s tough to keep track of where you’re at. I agree the readers do help keep the text to an easily digested size, format and word count but give me the printed book any day of the week.

I’ve got my stacks of books in the basement and I frequently re-read those books. I plan to continue and I know many of you out there will do the same. I also have a number of eBooks for when I’m waiting or traveling. As a traditionally-trained graphic designer, print comes first. Electronic is a nice compliment to the actual finished product but never a replacement.

Cheers!