One of the many bookshops in Hay-on-Wye.
Happy Jubilee weekend from a very jubilant Britain! We’re on the last day of our four-day weekend, so it seems fitting to focus today’s post on happenings here in the Land of Hope and Glory.
A recent article in the Daily Mail proclaimed that a bookshop owner in Hay-on-Wye — a town legendary for its dozens of independent bookshops — is seeking to ban the Kindle from one of the world’s leading literary festivals in town this weekend.
Mr Addyman, 57, said: ‘Kindles have no place at this festival which is supposed to be a celebration of the written word – and books.
‘Booksellers here definitely want them banned. You see people walking around with Kindles and they are like robots in another world.
‘Books are sociable and people stop and talk to each other about them. Kindles are just a phase and they won’t last. They are our enemy.’
While Hay is a place known for its eccentric characters and Addyman’s views may be a little extreme, it flags up an attitude that still prevails: e-readers are destroying traditional books and, by default, bookshops.
While I feel for the plight of independent bookshop owners, vilifying technology certainly isn’t the way forward — nor is it an effective method of ensuring survival. In fact, it makes those protesting seem even more out of touch and dated. Instead of sticking your head in the sand, why not try to develop ideas to help compete with what’s happening?
I realise I’m preaching to the converted here, but I’ve bought more books since owning a Kindle –thereby supporting more authors and publishers — than ever before. I rarely bought a book before Kindle; I just headed to the library. Not to mention the advent of ebooks has allowed me to make a living.
New technologies always bring change, some of it unwelcome. I love bookshops and I hope they find a way to make it work for them. But until they accept e-books are here to stay, I fear the way of the dinosaur beckons…
What’s the situation in your neck of the woods? Are bookshops closing? Do you still buy print books?
I never thought I would get on with a Kindle, but I love it. Living in Cyprus I have no library to join, and books are expensive. I have to wait weeks for paperbacks (which I still adore and buy), but with the Kindle, I can download instantly. Waterstones have the right idea. They have joined forces with Amazon and are selling Kindles off the shelf, along with ebooks. Now they cater for everyone. No whinging, just surviving and supplying.
Hi Glynis! I hear you on the convenience side! It’s so easy just to one-click, especially if you’re in a location without easy access to English books.
I purchase only non-fiction (usually parenting) books that I cannot find on Kindle. And yes, independent bookstores are closing in London too. We lost one in Crouch End last year. It had been open for years. But as you say, it is a sign of change. Perhaps if these stores embraced the change; offering e-readers for sale and having readings/signings of e-books, they would not go out of business.
Tara, that’s similar to me – if I want a reference book, I’m probably more likely to buy it in hard-copy. Everything else… ebook! Fingers crossed bookshops evolve, too.
I agree that banning technology isn’t going to do it. Makes ‘em sound like dinosaurs. I mostly read regular books, but I do have a Kindle and read a few books and manuscripts on it too. Does that take away from the written word?
Theresa, that’s a great point. Kindles aren’t just for reading books – they’re great for editing, reading aloud, etc. Important tools for writers!
Kindles are just a phase? *lmfao*
I’m sure record shops could tell him a thing or two about MP3s and the digital revolution.
Of course there are idiots out there who argue that ebooks aren’t “real” books, but those people always have a stake in selling paper books. Writers, and more importantly readers, know that books are books, no matter the form: paper, digital, or audio.
Honestly, he just sounds like a kook who wanted to get his name in the paper.
India, I thought of the demise of record shops, too. Not sure why more bookshops aren’t looking at what happened there and trying to change. He is known to be a kook, but his attitude seems to be an extreme version of what’s already out there for some people.
If the grid goes down on 12/21/12, I still have hundreds of “real” books to read. BUT I love my Kindle and don’t want to give it up. I can immediately read a book that catches my interest.
I believe that it’s the CONTENT not the method of distribution to the reader that’s important.
When it’s the “written word”, it can be in any form. Readers want a good story or they want information and they’ll determine the best way to get it.
Let’s see how this festival changes over the coming years.
And…God Bless Queen Elizabeth II
Mitzi
“I believe that it’s the CONTENT not the method of distribution to the reader that’s important.
When it’s the “written word”, it can be in any form. Readers want a good story or they want information and they’ll determine the best way to get it.”
Exactly, Mitzi! It really should be all about content and not form. I completely agree.
E-books are a way for ALL writers, not just the ‘celeb’ ones favoured by publishers to get their books out there. And for ALL readers to share and enjoy the fruits of their labour. It is an equalizer in a world where too many big publishers with their own agendas hold sway. We need all sorts of biblio- outlets – but mostly, we need to read. And read. Ebooks? Bring ‘em on!NB:In the 15th century, there were similarly derogative comments by scribes about the introduction of the printing press. Nothing changes!
Great point, Carol. They’ve levelled the playing field and made reading ‘cool’ again! And you’re right: plus ca change…
I don’t often buy print books, but I never did before, either. I’ve probably bought more books since I had a Kindle, but that doesn’t mean I’ve read them! I still go to the library about once a week and borrow multiple books. I still read print books more than I read Kindle books. If I were buying a book as a present, it would be a print book (mainly because I don’t think you can gift e-books in the UK yet, and also because very few people I know have a Kindle) – it’s nice to have something concrete, something solid.
I don’t think print books will ever go away the way hardbacks haven’t gone away despite the advent of paperbacks. I think they’ll just be another medium. And to be honest, in ten years’ time they’ll be beaming stories straight into our heads and then where will bookshops be? Sometimes you just have to accept that the world moves on.
I too think paperbacks will be around for a while yet – hardback still are (sort of!). Kindles give people choice, and that’s what’s important. And as you say, who knows what inventions the future will bring?
Bookshops are closing here in Kent, too. Our local independent closed a few years ago, but not because of e-readers, they were barely on the horizon. It was competition from the supermarkets and Amazon. The man is clearly a deluded dinosaur and possibly, yes, just wanted to get his name in the paper. I love my Kindle, but buy an equal amount of print books, too, and I know some of my readers would be cross if my books stopped appearing in print. And there is a danger. My publishers are quite clearly envisaging a future where they only provide print on demand, as their print sales decline every year, while ebooks continue to rise.
Lesley, yes, publishers seem to be looking more and more at print on demand. I can understand, I guess: less storage costs, less overhead… and as ebook sales rise, it seems to make sense. It will be interesting to see how publishers evolve along with bookshops.
The bookstores around where I live are still open but I’m sure they’re struggling. They have to be! And I’m with you, we have to embrace technology at some point or at least acknowledge and work with it if it affects our business!
Exactly, Laura!
I live in a county in North Carolina with a few truly fabulous book stores. One book store draws crowds with visits and readings by HUGE authors and celebrities. It’s also located near the state capital and a couple universities. More locally to me, a couple used book stores are continuing to operate. They draw in customers with children’s events and smaller readings. Their books are reasonably priced as they are used. A Barnes & Noble bookstore is located in our county, also, where Nooks are displayed up front and center. A Borders bookstore closed a couple years ago, though, and now an outdoor recreation supply store occupies the same space.
I love my Kindle… but I wouldn’t take it to the beach with me, even though I’ve heard about folks successfully keeping it in a plastic bag. With two young boys and all the commotion that goes along with the beach, I fear for my Kindle’s life at the beach.
That’s really heartening, Tamara. I think if bookshops work hard to become social places within communities, they definitely have a good chance of surviving.
Talli, I’m reporting from NYC and can tell you that bookstores are disappearing & have been for some years now. Mostly it’s the advent of e-reading; but also because NYC rents get higher and higher. The only bookstores that survive and seem to thrive are museum shops & shops catering to niche markets: art, architecture, gardening. Here’s a link to one. It’s beautifully designed, welcoming & the books are elegant & $$$$:
Archivia: http://www.archiviabooks.com/
Museum bookstores also seem here to stay.
But it’s not just bookstores. Movie theaters are disappearing, too. Because so much is now on TV/cable/DVD; because ticket prices get more & more expensive; because there just aren’t that many terrific must-see movies at any given time; because audiences are rude & noisy.
That’s a great point, Ruth – bookshops can embrace the niche and turn out beautiful products. They might become luxury goods – like artwork – but at least the bookshops would survive. And I’d never thought about cinemas, but you’re right.
I don’t buy print books anymore, and haven’t for over a year…unless, they’re gorgeous coffee table books that don’t come in Ebook format and I can pick those up for less than $5 on Amazon.
And this is exactly where I think bookstores are missing the boat!
They have this A-mazing opportunity to turn their stores into “experiences”…
For example, what if they became more like family rooms and living rooms with these gorgeous non-fiction collectors books and sold remainder books from the Big Pubs. For those of you who don’t know, Remainders are sold in box loads by the Big 6 to usually big box stores like Sams and Costco. The books may have a bent corner or a price tag that won’t come off or a small scratch, but otherwise they’re fine.
Perhaps several nights a week, bookstores would host authors of all genres – perhaps for a small ticket fee. Authors would read their books from their Ereader to crowds gathered with their Ereaders all bubble tweading together, having coffee or wine and becoming a community.
They could host writing clubs and book clubs, again creating another type of community.
They’re gonna have to start thinking outside the box and brick and mortar…and make their worlds communities and virtual communities too.
That’s all they gotta do…think outside the box! And it would actually be cheaper than stocking a bookstore of print books no one is buying anymore.
DD, you should open a bookshop! What an amazing place that would be. I agree – to survive, they’re going to have to think outside the box. Whether they can and will evolve quickly enough before they lose too much money, well… I guess we’ll find out.
It may have been Konrath recently who reminded us that print books are simply the medium of delivery that has been the lock on distribution since the first printing press.
Now the medium of delivery has changed…not the words…just the delivery method.
Yes, exactly! Well said.
What a great way to put it, DeeDee. And distributors were as hard to get as a publisher and take a lot of the profit too. Another reason why we can sell so much cheaper!
Talli- you are so right! You said it so well “In fact, it makes those protesting seem even more out of touch and dated. Instead of sticking your head in the sand, why not try to develop ideas to help compete with what’s happening? “
Thanks, Lois!
Ici France!
I’m a “mixed” buyer. I was one of the first amongst my friends to buy a Kindle and I love it. As I’m always on a plane, in a train or automobile, it’s so convenient instead of a bulky physical book. And there are very few (if any) English bookshops around here. Ordering from Amazon is the natural way and I save so much postage.
I also use it to read my own writing on and swap manuscripts with my writing buddy in the UK by sending to each other’s Kindles.
But..
I do like the sensory feel of a physical book. I adore a good cover and well-written blurb all packaged up in a chunky shape. I love reaching up in a bookshop to touch a new book, hold it in my hand, flick through the pages, study the lines and font and then get enthralled by the story.
Conclusion: like self-publishing and traditional publishing, physical and e-books both have their place. The important thing is the content, not the medium but the message.
I agree the important thing is the content – and yes, there is room for both… however, don’t you think it might be a bit like saying the horse and carriage can share the road with the automobile? Gradually, I do think ebooks will take over. It might take some time, but except for niche products, I reckon it’s inevitable…
I think the first place I heard the distinction made between *books* and *stories* was on Bob Mayer’s blog. These are definitely not his words directly, but my interpretation of them: Where publishers and booksellers failed (and continue to fail) is that they believe their product is books. It is not. Their product is stories. That is what readers want. The rest is just a delivery mechanism.
I’m quite happy with my Kindle delivery mechanism.
Vickie, I’m happy with my Kindle delivery mechanism, too! And yes, readers just want stories.
I too think that Waterstones have gone the right way, by latching onto Amazon. Now they can cater for both types of readers: print and electronic. This is the way to go. I only know of two indie bookstores that I have visited. One of those, in Holborn, isn’t interested in ebooks. I tried to promote my second Angel ebook by asking if they would display my postcards and when I said it was an ebook, they said they only deal with print books, and wouldn’t take my cards. I think they were missing out on something there. I think bookstore should take a leaf out of authors’ books and go with both version. That way they can be seen as coming in with the times. I love my Kindle. I have discovered new authors that way, and I esp use it to buy nonfiction ebooks about writing.
I think Waterstones is taking a step in the right direction, too, Julie. I just hope they know what they’re doing and that the terms of the agreement are beneficial! I hope indies do find a way to bring ebook offerings into shops. Fingers crossed!
Here in Southern California, the demise of independent bookstores is too old to be attributed to Kindle. The Big Stores muscled out many small book stores back in the ’90′s. A few remain and have survived because of unique circumstances.
I received a Kindle for Mother’s Day–months after my first e-book went up on Amazon. I love it! I agree that I will still buy some books, but one thing I love about ebooks is that they don’t take up shelf space. We’re surrounded by books in our house and my English husband–bless his heart–has difficulty parting with any of them.
Congrats on your new Kindle, Judith! I love the fact that they don’t take up space, too. Living in a small flat, I’ve already had to cart several bagfuls to the local charity shop!
I have recently downloaded the Kindle app to my iPhone and I love it. My first e-book purchase was “My Temporary Life” by Martin Crosbie. I love the book so much I bought the hard copy as well. The Kindle people have a bit to much market control for my liking. But this won’t last forever. I believe there is room for both. Calling the Kindle a phase that won’t last is unrealistic. I love books, I love the smell and feel of them. Yes, book stores are closing in my city of Ottawa, Canada. Perhaps if you emphasized the virtues of hard copy books and left the Kindle alone, that would help. My 2 cents (pence)
Hi David, I agree I’m a little uncomfortable with Amazon’s monopoly – especially in the UK, where we don’t have a strong competitor like Barnes and Noble. And yes, indie bookshops should work on getting their own benefits across and not vilify other things.
PS – I lived in Ottawa for five years!
Hi Talli:
Congratulations to your country on the Queen’s Jubilee! I’ve watched so much BBC this weekend from my home in Pittsburgh, I think I’ve acquired a British accent!
I’ve had a Kindle for two years, and I bought two for gifts last Christmas. I’m nearing the approach of publishing my first novel, and I thought I may as well patronize the new technology. Those who received them have both commented, without any prompting on my part, that they think they are reading now more than ever. So I say, Long Live the Kindle!–see I told you this Jubilee has gone to my head!
Thanks, Janice! And you’re right – since getting my Kindle, I’ve become even more of a reading addict.
Long live Kindle!
I love Hay to bits, it is one of my favourite places to spend a day book browsing, and I can’t help thinking that this was an ill-judged publicity stunt. I have a Kindle but it certainly hasn’t made much of a dent (if any) in my book buying. I still buy just as many paperbacks but probably buy more books overall, if you add in the ebooks I purchase, so I can’t see that the Kindle will be the death of bookshops.
And I can’t help finding it a little ironic to call for the Kindle to be outlawed in a book town where the majority of books sold are second-hand and, as such, none of the revenue from sales finds its way back to the original author (or publisher).
Kath, I totally forgot about the second-hand books aspect! So true! And I think many people are like you, buying both paperbacks and Kindle.
I stopped reading paper books about two years ago after more than sixty years of reading. I never thought I’d lose the attraction that print books had. That is, the above mentioned tactile feeling and smell of a print book, but now I find I was wrong. Reading a print book now feels alien and I’ve stopped visiting libraries. There’s more content on the net than in my local library.
Some hybrid independent bookshops still exist in Southern California, but they usually cater to markets like spiritualism or religion, and they sell more than books. There are also a few in the tourist traps (along with the ubiquitous coffee shop) but big market bookstores are vanishing.
People my age have physical difficulties, making reading a print book a chore rather than a pleasure. A large hardback is tiring to hold and the small print of a paperback is unreadable. With my PC or my two Kindles I can enlarge the print and only have to brush my finger across the screen to turn a page or click my mouse on my computer.
We baby boomers are a significant market for books and we’re not afraid of technology, we grew up with it. Some of us (like me) are also writing eBooks. Its a fun and challenging way to retire while still being productive and contributing to society.
You make a great point about large-print books and ease of reading, Doug. I hadn’t even thought of that!
Here in NZ we recently saw a huge Borders close. So far its the only one. We still have plenty of independant stores-which I love. I will probably always buy books even if they are pricey. Up until this year, kindles were not available. Our biggest book chain has done a deal with Kobo, so those are the only ones for sale in stores. Msybe we’ll be the last store standing? Its rare to see someone on an e-reader, although I am starting to see it a bit more. I love mine, and would love to try a kindle, but only when the Fire can actually work here (which it cant as yet).
Whisky Tango Foxtrot.
Has he not seen that Waterstones are now selling Kindles? I’ve actually had a dialogue with a certain person who runs the company, ahem. And put forward my idea that for every paper book sold, the purchaser should be able to download an e copy of their book to a device of their choice via a code on the receipt. My thinking being that this surely cannot be beyond the capability of Amazon/Waterstones etc. I rec’d a reply saying this is a great idea and they’re going to consider it and set up a dialogue. The one person your bookstore is not thinking about is the reader. Remember them? If we don’t all work together to give readers a choice then the local bookstore will be defunct. I LOVE my local bookstores. Yes, they’re resistant to change and epublishing. But they need to pull on their big girl panties and suck it up and to put their readers first.
As an aside I did say that Waterstones were still behind the trend and hadn’t got their heads our of their ass earlier enough. No one disagreed with me. Says it all.
Great post, Talli!
Montreal remains its usual eclectic place – we’ve still got lots of second hand shops, even while everyone rushes out to buy ereaders!
I was in Portland, Oregon, last month. Spent some quality time at Powell’s Bookstore (www.powells.com). I doubt Powell’s will ever go under. It’s a bibliophile’s paradise — huge, and with an enormous online presence. B&N and Borders deliberately emulated Powell’s as their business and physical model.
But in response to posts about bookstores needing to evolve and adapt with the times, I saw a demo of the Espresso Book Machine, which Powell’s has recently installed in their main store. As with e-books and POD, EBM (www.ondemandbooks.com) is the wave of the future. Very impressive, and fascinating to watch. Thousands of titles are available, including many out-of-print and public domain. The hardcopy output was indistinguishable from offset. Definitely one way brick-and-mortar stores can keep drawing customers in.