The Future of Books: Print vs. Digital

By Sarah Jones, Library Director, Carlsbad Public Library

If you’ve visited the library lately, you may have noticed something remarkable: people are reading in more ways than ever before. Some browse the shelves for a classic hardcover, while others download the latest bestseller onto an e-reader or listen to an audiobook during their commute. This variety raises a question many readers ask: What is the future of books—print or digital?

The truth is, both formats offer unique benefits, and the debate is less about one replacing the other and more about how they can coexist.

The Case for Print

Print books have been with us for centuries, and their staying power is no accident. Many readers love the tactile experience of holding a book, turning its pages, and even noticing its weight and design. Print also reduces distractions. With no notifications or screens competing for attention, readers can lose themselves in the story. Research has shown that, for some people, comprehension and memory are stronger when reading in print, especially for long or complex texts.

Libraries and bookstores also thrive on the sense of discovery that comes with browsing physical shelves. Finding an unexpected title can feel like uncovering treasure—a joy that’s hard to replicate in a digital catalog. And for collectors, nothing compares to a home lined with favorite books.

The Case for Digital

On the other hand, digital books have transformed access to reading. With just a library card, patrons can borrow an e-book instantly, anytime and anywhere. E-readers allow thousands of books to be carried in a device lighter than a single paperback. Features like adjustable font sizes, built-in dictionaries, and screen readers make digital formats especially valuable for those with visual impairments or learning differences.Digital also supports changing lifestyles. Audiobooks, in particular, have surged in popularity, offering a way to “read” while driving, exercising, or cooking. For busy families and professionals, digital formats expand opportunities to fit more reading into daily life.

The Library’s Role

Rather than choosing sides, libraries embrace both worlds. Most public libraries today offer extensive collections of print books alongside digital platforms like Libby, Hoopla, or CloudLibrary, which provide e-books and audiobooks. This dual approach ensures that all patrons—whether they prefer the comfort of print or the convenience of digital—can access stories in the format that suits them best.

Libraries also help bridge the digital divide. Not everyone has the means to purchase e-books or own devices, but with library access, those barriers disappear. By offering free digital lending, libraries extend the democratization of knowledge that has always defined their mission.

Looking Ahead

So, what is the future of books? The answer is both. Print will remain cherished for its tangibility and tradition, while digital will continue to grow because of its accessibility and flexibility. Each format complements the other, expanding how and when we can read.

At the heart of the debate is something both sides agree on: books—whether on a shelf, on a screen, or spoken aloud—remain essential to human connection, learning, and imagination. The real future of books lies not in choosing print or digital, but in celebrating the freedom to read in every form available.