Since the introduction of the Internet, we have seen a myriad of medias for which the written word has been technologically displayed. Technology has once again made history, as bibliophiles are no longer confined to live in cyclonesque dwellings where books are used for end tables, paperweights, or stored in the extra space of your oven.
You see I’ve never met a bibliophile who could discard a book. I think bibliophiles would rather suffer spatial confusion indefinitely, or move to a larger house, than bear the pain of separation form their beloved selected works.
But up until recently, if you yearned to be a bibliophile, then there were predominately two options. You could either simply find room for the books, or borrow them from the library.
Now with the prevalence of the Internet, coupled with cellular networks being a bibliophile has never been easier. Everyone meet the Kindle 2 (K2), the bibliophile’s new best friend. The K2 enhances the way you’re accustomed to reading. And with the K2 your reading experience is completely customizable.
To delve into some of the specifics, the font size of the K2 can be changed, you are able to switch from one book to another without loosing you page, and the K2 has built in text to speech software allowing you to go from reading to listening. There is also a built in dictionary, highlighter, web browser and MP3 player. Additionally, because the K2 is so light (it only weighs 10 oz.), you can easily travel anywhere with it. Instead of taking several books on your next vacation, you can take your entire library! The K2 isn’t a book, it’s better than a book; the K2 is a computer that reads like a book. And did I mention the K2 comes equipped with wireless? Books can be downloaded in less than 60 seconds. Some books are free, but most are priced around $10. The K2 also affords you access to magazines, newspapers, and RSS feeds.
Just like Apple’s Ipod has afforded the prolific distribution of television shows, movies and music, I believe the K2 is the beginning of a paradigm shift in the way that we move forward as a society. Think about the possibilities: Imagine not having to carry a heavy backpack because your textbook is now 10 ounces.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong about perusing a bookstore. And you’ll still have to for a while, because not all of the books are available yet on K 2. The much-enjoyed pastime isn’t going away anytime soon (neither are libraries), so you’re safe.
Let’s donate our books to the less fortunate; let’s fill our libraries. We have so many decisions to make. And while contemplating decisions, even if you have no aspirations of becoming a bibliophile, who knows – maybe you’ll read more.
Corrections: This opinion was written by Christina Yaremko. An earlier version was attributed to Brittany Butterfield.