Technology has changed the way people are reading books along with other types of media. E-readers and tablets popularity have driven that change. Over 20% of Americans said they have used an electronic device to read a book over the past year. Close to three out of every 10 Americans own a device used for electronic reading. Those devices include tablets like the iPad from Apple and the Amazon Kindle.
More and more people can be seen on airplanes, trains and the subway using the devices to read their books, magazines or other media. Experts believe the society will be greatly changed by the e-reader as more and more people purchase them. People using e-readers said since it is easier to download a book than go to a store and buy one, they are reading more today than in previous years. Many are averaging 24 books per year now, whereas before they averaged only 15 printed books annually.
E-Readers and tablets are not the only place people are reading books or magazines. Over 42% of Americans that answered a recent survey said they had read a book in the last year on a tablet, e-reader, computer or cell phone. One reason many more are using the electronic devices is their affordability. The Kindle is now sold by Amazon for less than $80. That makes them more accessible to more people therefore more books, magazines and newspapers are being read electronically. With the advances in technology taking place, it will not be long before prices are reduced even more.
