Take a look at the picture right there.
Within the last few weeks, I have noticed a growing trend with Starbucks. For quite a long time, Starbucks have had a “pick of the week.” It used to just be songs, but for the past year or so, I have noticed that they have begun to use apps and specifically related to this post, they have used books.
Books. Books given away as if they are prizes.
It’s hard to explain, but I felt…hopeful after seeing things. I may be the only one, but I thought this to mean so much more to me than what many might think.
Just do one quick Google search and you are sure to find writers, readers, and publishers mourning the loss of the “true” printed word. The published paper book. The kind that you can open the binding and smell that wonderful smell you only find in a book. And I’m no different, I’ve written those posts too.
But seeing this little card gave me a spark of hope.
You see, this card is just the beginning. Books are easy access now. They are no longer these clunky things we carry around in our purse (like you don’t do that). They are on our phones, nooks, kindles, tablets and iPads. They are with you whether you are a business man who secretly enjoys chicklit. Or a stay at home mom who loves erotica. You no longer have to worry what people think about what you read.
And it’s more than that…we cry about the loss of our books, and although here is a growing concern about this new technology’s impact on libraries and bookstores (which is a valid concern), this technology brings about brand new exciting and interesting ways to reach readers, both new and old. Books are seen fun again. Books are exciting. Books are hip. Books are nifty. Books are finally cool again.
It’s always tough to adopt a new technology. I still have the tapes I would play over and over again (Spice Girls anyone?). I still own video cassettes (and even have a VHS player). And of course there will be some who refuse to adopt the idea. And that’s okay. Think of how long it took for all of us to accept the idea of the mp3 player (and there are still those who buy the standard CDs).
My advice to writers, publishers, and book lovers everywhere? Don’t fight the technology. Sure, it will be a tough road ahead. Any emerging technology faces that, but the reality of it is the sooner we think of this as an opportunity for books rather than against books, the sooner we realize that the endless possibilities that lie before us.
You probably got this one a hundred times over, but you didn't get it from me yet! 🙂
Kreativ Blogger Award
Thanks Diane!!! That's so cool!! 🙂
I love this post, Nicole. I think the truth is that most people have had twinges (at least) of regret in the advance of technology, but in the end it all washes out, usually for the better, I think. I tend to embrace change, so it's easier for me than most. Yet, I watch others slowly become converted as well. My mother bemoaned cell phones to the point that I wanted to strangle her with her traditional phone cord (not really) but now realizes the wonderful changes hers had made in her life. What my Kindle has meant to me is a larger variety of authors I can access easily and the ability to read one book for a while and switch over to another when I get tired of that one, with the click of a button.
I'm really encouraged by the sign as you are.
Yes! I love the authors I have found as a result of this technology! It's wonderful! My brother is the same way…it took him long to get used to the idea of a cell phone (even got offended when I bought him one) but now he is FINALLY adopting it as a fun piece of technology!
Good positive post on the new technology. Although, I hope tangible-in-the-paper books will stay around. It is easier to read from a Kindle, though.
Oh me too! I will never get rid of my paper books!
Guilty. I'll leave it that. Technology is great and giving more folks access to reading is always a fabulous idea. Wonderful post.
Thanks! 🙂
I love my Kindle 🙂
Are Starbucks giving things away or just advertising their favourites…?
They are giving them away! Keep your eye out! They Usually have those cards easy to spot!
Hi, Nicole. I don't visit Starbucks unless I'm on vacation, and then I can't live without them. Lol! I hadn't heard about books being included in those picks of the week yet. Very interesting. Thanks for sharing.
-Jimmy
I definitely can't live without Starbucks! 🙂 and I definitely am glad to see this change coming about!
Yay, Starbucks! I've always loved the feel and ownership of books in my home. But when I downsized to a small cottage last year, they had to go. I kept a few favorites with no more room for additions. When I got my Nook, I found that I actually buy more books than ever because it's just so easy. You read about a book that sounds interesting and presto! There it is. I think this technology is a fine thing for the industry and writers everywhere — especially with the ease of self-publishing now. Count me as a fan of the new tech.
Good point! When bookstores aren't as easy to get to anymore the idea of downloading a book within a few seconds is wonderful!
VCR. Oh, it's certainly a sign of the times.
Ebooks are great for so many reasons. I think it's a great step forward.