Neither solution is acceptable. Fortunately there is hope in the form eBooks. Thus far, I have not been a fan of eBooks far preferring the feel of reading a paper book or a magazine. I like the simplicity of reading using a technology that does not depend on electricity, network connectivity and the like. But between carting hundreds of pounds of printed material during moves, re-organizing them with each new chapter of life and making the heart-wrenching decision of giving up some of the titles due to lack of space, I have had enough.
I expect that eBooks by their compact nature will solve most of my physical clutter problems. In addition, over the course of time they may prove to be more environmentally friendly than printed books: perhaps the environmental cost of paper and packaging for a printed book outweighs that of electronic waste from an eBook reader if one hangs on to the reader for a few years. Finally, there will be significant savings of time when deciding which books to pack for a trip - since once can take multiple eBooks along without increasing the weight.
eBooks' advantages notwithstanding, they are not going to be as easy on the eye as printed books; especially when one is reading on a computer or an iPad. But I hope that over time, my eyes will get used to the medium. If anything, I am more worried about comprehension - if my online reading style transfers to eBooks, I will end up skimming books rather than reading them.
Very good point about reading style.
ReplyDeleteAlso, perhaps you can consider another option: stop moving homes! :-)
Valid solution. Now if only I could comfortable with the inflated (still) house prices in the bay area and buy a house.
ReplyDeleteWhat about library books? You still get to read print and don't have to store them after reading.
ReplyDeleteLibrary books and those that are rented from stores such as Pendragon (by and sell back) are still on! For as long as libraries and bookstores that rent books exist.
ReplyDelete