Touchpad Technology and the eBook Reader: Are you ready to go paperless?

by Rebecca Beckett

The question is lurking in the back of all our minds as things around us slowly become digital - What should I choose? With technology like the touchpad and touchscreen panel , thanks to capacitive sensors, technology is becoming more tactile, we feel like we can interact more effectively with our electronics. But, are you ready to replace your paperbacks and hardcovers with an eBook reader. There are many already on the digital bandwagon. However, there are many that say they will never jump on board. So, why don't people want to go paperless? After all, we're trying to become a more environmentally sound society, right? Well, for starters everyone loves the feel of a good book in their hands - cracking open that spine for the first time and enjoying the smell of the new printed paper. Ah, and the look of the book upon your bookshelf. You can organize, stylize and decorate with hardbacks or paperbacks. You can swap books with your friends. With digital magazines you can't clip out your favorite articles and make a handy file folder for the best recipes. Finally, it's a nice escape for a lot of people. When you sit on a the bus on your way to work or wait in the lobby somewhere, it is nice to get away from the computer screen you probably stare at all day. It lets the eyes rest for a moment.

While there seems to be many reasons why people are avoiding the eBook reader, many are embracing it because of the positive aspects. It saves on printed material. It also allows you to store many books, newspapers, pdf documents and magazines all on one device. They are small enough to stick in a purse or briefcase so you can easily carry it with you wherever you might go. Plus, with the use of the touchscreen technology it might end up right next to the iPod as the coolest gadget to own. It can never hurt to be hip, right?

Who knows the future of the eBook reader as it is still relatively new and fighting for its place among the newest, coolest technology. However, another important aspect to consider is how it might impact the future of the printed word if it does become the norm. Will this mean copies of books are pirated and hacked thus a decrease in earnings for writers across the board? Will it mean a more environmentally friendly way to get our news, recipes and fiction? Maybe the next time you go to Barnes and Noble it won't be to pick up your favorite author's new book, perhaps it will be to hook up to a download station where you can peruse and purchase it digitally. I don't know. One thing is certain, however. We haven't seen the last of the eBook reader. We'll have to wait to see where it lands.

It is hard to say whether society will decide to go digital when it comes to books. It's hard to imagine a world without libraries and good bookstores where you can grab a cup of coffee and relax. Maybe, in the end, there is space and a place for both. What will you decide?