While many of today s readers are middle aged or older and are used to reading from hard copy, the younger generation is accustomed to reading on screens, some analysts say. It is quite realistic to assume downloaded documents will comprise a large share of our society s reading material for business, study, or pleasure in years to come. Printing on demand is another aspect of the future that is here today. IDG is getting into custom books through its Arthur Frommer Travel Division. Random House is beginning to digitize its backlist.
Libraries now circulate digital books.
Recently, the New York Times reported that the University of Texas is planning to expand its 6,000 title collection of digital books. NetLibrary sells these digital collections to libraries. The potential market is huge. Whether readers enthusiasm will match that of the authors, electronic publishers, and distributors remains to be seen. Lots of questions remain.