Since 1996, UNESCO declared April 23 as "World book day". The same day also celebrates the life of Miguel de Cervantes, William Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, some of the biggest writers in history.
Technology has changed everything in the world. Our communicating system now has virtual social networks, text messages and images on mobile devices but, what about the books?
As an activity that teaches us about the world with real or fiction stories, the books take us to another place and also, they feed out brains with new ideas. As a research tool, for education or pleasure, the books also have a say in the new era.
A new study made by PEW showed that 21% of adults in the United States have read at least one "e-book" in the last year.
The producers of tablets and reading devices like the Kindle increased their sells during Christmas time thanks to the huge demand.
The study also showed that 43% of the young adults (older than 16 years old) read on mobile devices, not only e-books but also newspapers and magazines. 88% of them mentioned reading more time electronic and traditional books.
E-books have complemented the book market, between virtual and real books, the users who read both ways read 24 books on one year. People that continue reading traditionally read 15 books per year.
Even with this numbers, printed books are the favorites, especially when reading to kids or sharing with others. The book market is made by 77% printed books, 17% e-books and 11% audio books.
brenda.colon@sandiegored.com
