Emergence of Ebook and the Survival of the Physical Book in Africa

Abstract

Abstract:

Print books have no doubt retained their monopoly overtime in the dissemination of information across the globe. However, the introduction of eBooks propelled by technological advancements has created controversies regarding the life span of print books. This paper provides an overview of the emergence
of eBooks into the African book industry and ascertains the leverage on the survival of the print books.Although the use of eBooks has spread widely, they have not gained grounds in Africa because of limitations in finances, technical know-how and infrastructure. The need for government to tackle infrastructural
issues and establish policies and regulations on information service provision were emphasized. The paper concludes that the ushering in of eBooks will not result in the extinction of the print book; rather both will thrive side-by-side to complement one another. The eBook is not a replacement of the print book but just an addition!

Dr. Victoria Okojie, FNLA, CLN. Emergence of Ebook and the Survival of the Physical Book in Africa[J]. LIBRARY JOURNAL.

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