Move over hardcovers, make room for the tablet! For the first time in history, e-book sales have topped the sales of hardcovers and paperbacks in every category. The American Association of Publishers attributes the rising popularity of these unique devices to their portability and wide range of books available. Instead of dusty bookshelves crowded with aging tomes, consumers can build their own electronic libraries on a kindle, nook, or iPad. Prices are competitive and are even available with Wi-Fi, allowing books to be read anywhere.
The great success of e-readers does not come without its disadvantages, however. Profit margins are smaller for publishers and authors are demanding higher royalties. In order to compete with the growing market, authors may cut staff or minimize promotion for their new work.
The popularity of e-books only seems to keep growing. Forget turning pages and losing a bookmark, swiping is the new way to go! Head over to your local Barnes & Noble to get great hands-on experience with the nook, their version of the e-reader. Once you try it, it will be the next item on your wish list!
