The Problem With E-Books
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- Опубліковано 4 лип 2024
- Do I use E-Books? Should You Wear Gloves To Handle Books? What Is A Rare Book? Why Do Old Books Smell? Why Should You Collect Books?
To celebrate hitting 3,000 subscribers, I'm answering your questions about books and book collecting!
I found a good use for "E" books; I spent some 20+ yrs in the military and we were very restricted on what and how many personal items we could bring with us on deployment(of course, some high ranking officers could bring whole truckloads of personal gear with them). I could never bring more than 3 or 4 books with me and they would have to be small ones or paperbacks at most. When tablets started showing up, I could bring dozens, even hundreds of books while taking up very little space, I could add or subtract as needed and as long as I kept it charged, everything was fine. After retiring from the military, I've returned to real books but the "E" books helped a lot when I needed them.
My wife is visually impaired and e-books let her read large print without the bulk of large print books. She can enlarge the print of any book and not have to search for special editions. We are very grateful for ebooks.
In my 20s i lost the sight in one eye - could no longer read books - though i had the habit of reading a book a day (on average) even reading a few pages completely blurred my vision - gave up reading altogether - many years later ebooks/ereaders came along and i gave it a try with a very cheap reader - the ability to change font size and line spacing made all the difference - books were back in my life
My word, I did not expect to get such an in depth answer to my smelly book question 😂 Fantastic, thank you very much for the answer
Happy to help! 😂
As a retired librarian I would like to point out that the best periodicals to sniff are the glossy architecture journals. The best book I've sniffed recently is "Soil Science for Gardeners" - luvverly!❤
@@chriseverest4380 It is my dream to be a librarian. I guess you've just given me another reason 😂
I used to be a huge fan of buying books in physical format, mostly soft cover. Then audiobooks became popular and I got hooked on them -- first on cassette, then on CDs, then download and streaming. Then I got a Kindle (or the app for my iPhone, iPad and my laptops) for e-books and I loved their convenience. Then I discovered the joys of certain books in "deep immersion" format -- simultaneously reading the Kindle e-book while listening. Now, instead of saving money, I often wind up buying a book in all three formats. And for really special works, if available in a quality leather binding, I wind up getting that, too.
This September I read Pride and Prejudice for the first time in my life (I mean the original, non abridged text; I had read excerpts before) in ebook. Last year, I could take off some 20-ish books from my list, thanks to my kindle. It was literally YEARS that I couldn't read that much, since we had a toddler in the house it was nearly impossible to me to use physical books (mainly because I like those sturdy 500-pages novels, I can't read short books). Books saved my mental health and I will always recommend them as an alternative. But still, if I can, I choose the physical book. Nothing gets me happy at Christmas or birthday as unwrapping some volume!
I recently got a job as a cataloger at a university library, and one of our branch libraries on campus also happens to be one of the largest public old text and manuscript collections in North America. So while I'll never be rich enough to own a book from your store, I'm still glad that I can enjoy them vicariously through your channel, and every now and then I may even get to see one in person at work
This was eye opening and a really great explanation on the difference between an E-book and a physical Book. Usually for me if I'm interested in a book I'll get the digital copy first and read that and if I find myself enjoying it I'll get a physical copy.
Similar for me with audiobooks^^
I hope you do more longer videos; you have a very relaxing voice, and it's fascinating to learn about these sortsa books as well. Thanks for the content!
Thank you! Will do!
So true, I found myself trying to copy his accent. His pronunciation is so good and I’m very common lol
He's an interesting guy.
This was published 2 weeks ago to celebrate 3000, you've now got 24000 subscribers. That's great growth in 2 weeks! Happy to see the channel growing. Definitely subscribing now.
Time for 27k special
29k, babyy
40k Oct 19th
44k!! (October 25)
47.300
30 oct 2023
If it wasn't for E-books a vast majority of old stories would be lost or unaccessable to the masses now and later generations.
If I were an author, I'd like my stories to reach as far into the future as possible. I do though have a love for the paper.
Were they lost before ebooks existed?
I don't know much about book collection, but seeing someone passionate about their field is a treat.
The fact that only 2 weeks ago you had 3 thousand subscribers and now you have 10 times that is astonishing. Im so glad i discovered your channel as im so intrigued by old books. Thank you for your wonderful content
I recently devoured "A Month in the Country" based on one of your TikTok video's. It was a game changer for me, so many thanks.
Ah I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
Whats it about
That is a wonderful book! There are several meaningful quotes within the book.
Which one, Carr or Turgenev?
Carr @@paulbeardsley4095
Oh my goodness you worked with Topping & Co.? I should have guessed! Their branch in Bath has to be one of my favourite bookstores of all time - their contemporary signed copies and complementary beverages make for one of the loveliest book buying experiences! I’ll miss their old Bath location, but I’m looking forward to visiting their newer one next time I’m back home in the UK 💛
I can't believe I never came across this guy. Obviously subscribed. But man, I share the same passion for physical books. I haven't thought of any questions yet, but hurriedly I will say I appreciate finding a sophisticated aficionado. I will watch and learn.
I hated eBooks until I discovered E-Ink Displays. They really look like paper and is not as exhausting as reading on the Smartphone Display. But the biggest pro is the backlight that allows me to read in bed with my sleeping gf next to me. I still sometimes miss the romantic of a real book, but meanwhile the advantages are just top high for me. I still buy Books I would rate 10/10 for the shelve. Thanks for your insights and opinion. Love your Videos about old books!
12 days ago..."thanks for 3k"....now it is 21 K....whoaah 📕📕
We’re cooking on gas now 😮
Thank you for the great answer to my question, could not agree more with all the points you made.
My pleasure!
I prefer TREE CARCASS to e-books, but- a few authors I adore are ONLY in e-book format. So I have 2 choices- I read how they're published or not at all. Now- travel is ideal for e-books. Also, what about storage and price. Many hardbound editions are quite $$ these days. And what about audiobooks? I listen to books when walking or before going to sleep. I get e-books via Prime Library and through my Library. It saves gas and time.
The 2 deal breakers for me w e-bks vs. TC are these: 1) Children's books 2)Reference/Coffee Table books. Both of these can never be replaced by e-books. Having a large book of Impressionist Art or Gardens of Europe can only be fully appreciated in a large, heavy book with glossy photographs. Other than seeing them in person, that is.
Biggest problem with e-books ?
Well... Try to have an author's autograph on one !
One of your shorts just popped up in my feed, and here I am. Really enjoying your videos and looking forward to more 👍
Fascinating video! I should also like to say how much I enjoy your shorter videos, which are tiny jewels of information! Thank you for all of your videos!
Wow, thank you!
You need way more subscribers! I bet, sooner or later, you will grow. I love your content. I don't know why UA-cam suggested your channel for me to watch, but it was spot-on. I love it.
I was just wondering what is the oldest book I own. The oldest one I found so far is from 1927, it didn't even say when it was published, but I found it in some database. Not that old, but given that it is almost 100 years old, it is in an impressively good state. Its name is "Practical Housewife", and it is both a helpful and funny thing to read.
(Sorry for my English, I am not dumb, it is not my first language. :D I know it is not bad at all, but I make mistakes, especially as regards punctuation. I hope it makes sense anyway.)
You are absolutely not dumb! I cannot write in any other language. I enjoyed reading what you wrote, and will look for that book. Hugs💕✨
@@Angel_HippieCityHealingThank you very much. I am happy it sounded "English" enough!
More long form videos please ❤ this was delightful
Thank you for the insightful answer!
My pleasure!
Despite the scientific reason for the book smell, I still love it.
Also, I'm not sure how the algorithm brought me to your channel, Tom, but I'm glad I did.
I have a somewhat modest collection of physical books for things that are personally valuable and meaningful to me, the kinds of things that I like to re-read once every few years or so, while for most everyday reading I use my e-reader. The two are very different things to me personally, and each one has its place.
Great video, keep putting great content like that
Thanks! Will do
Toppings is an amazing book shop! They’ll even offer you a cup of tea or coffee if you browse long enough! A must visit if you’re ever in beautiful St Andrews. 3:14
New subscriber here. I really enjoy this channel. I love books!
Excellent Video!
Thank you!
I subscribed to the Jonkers Rare Book channel a week or so ago and had no idea you had a personal channel. The algorithm did a rare good deed suggesting this video today. 😊 📚
I love physical books. It just helps u dive deep within whatever world or subject u are reading. However, being a book nerd and reading way too fast, I have to use ebooks. If I didn't, then my house would be overrun 😂. Though I do buy physical copies of my favorites
How exciting to hear about your fascination with the politics of the Middle East! I’m a philosophy student interested in the same thing! Great channel and way to relax :)
Toppings are a great bookshop. I love how they give you free cups of tea, and have so many events
Amazing video, hoping seeing more longer stuff and I love the thing of rare and antique books, guides to take care of books? I been hoarding the novels of the japanese author Naoto Asahara and I want to keep them in good condition as a way to honour the life of the author (and btw, give it a look to the english translation of his novel, really good existentialist stuff)
Always appreciate a fellow hand talker. Careful not to be sat next to this guy while he is talking though as he may whack you.
Great advice 😊
I use audiobooks because, as an artist and I listen while I'm painting. I also "listen" to UA-cam while painting - Mostly medieval and Tudor history. I definitely love real books though because thats when I really relax.😊❤
I am wondering what your opinion would be on people writing their names inside books (or adding an ex libris). I personally love seeing who owned a book before me, but am quite hesitant myself in doing this. I also wonder if it would have an effect on the value of the book.
For me i love to look at the paper...the quality...some books state what the paper is and where made..and what type used ..
Yes! Paper has a fascinating history. It’s always fun to look at unprinted old paper and try to date it
@tomwayling Many old paper mills have water marks ..they have a code dating the paper..love your videos..Thank you I so enjoy them..
I'm reading a fantasy series at the moment. I found a cheap second hand copy of the first book but couldn't find a decent physical one with a cover I liked for the next so jumped to e books for the rest - but I keep the physical book on hand as the maps and glossary in the first are useful throughout the series.
I've just come across this UA-camr, he has gone from celebrating 3000 subs 12 days ago to reaching over 19k subs as I write this. That's some feat. I am hoping he does Jackonary style vloggs, he does have a remarkable wonderful reading tone
Well done! More content please! Even though I am but a simple country clergyman here in the United States (and, therefore may never afford such rare book delights), your passion for books is contagious and I trust you will be at the top of your field before long. Best wishes and thank you!
Toppings book shop in at andrews is my home away from home. Great shop. I’d probably bought books off you on the past.
I love ebooks.
They allow me to have a huge virtual library in a small home.
I get the"tactile" argument and I agree that physical books have something special about them.
I think bookshelves make a home.
However I have read nothing but ebooks for years now.
I am a bibliophile with a 3000+ collection. However i nearly always buy ebooks now. Just too useful to be able to carry books at all times on a phone and be able to read in any light, any font size, and even have it read to you with text to speech. Tts voices are very good now. That said, i always remove drm immediately from any book i buy and store it in my own ebook catalog app to avoid issues with the seller going out of business or in some way preventing my access to my books in the cloud.
Hey Tom, give us some vintage Wodehouse. Big fan here from the US of both plum and your channel
My e-books are the high-end expensive rare and some times esoteric ones that I can’t afford in hardcopy. I look at my hard collection of books as orphans who now have a home.
I've collected books for years. Nothing really special - I've never been in that kind of income bracket. More serendipity than planning.
I could never be an antiquarian book dealer. There would simply be so many books people would have to tear from my cold, dead hands. 😊😊😊
The favourite in my own collection? An early edition of "The Village Carpenter" by Walter Rose.
Possibly because my father was a cabinet maker. And for decades, if I wasn't working or reading, I would be chiselling or sawing. Most of my books are on handmade shelves.
Trouble is, if I ever encountered that coveted first edition of the book, I almost certainly couldn't afford it. 😅
I read non-fiction as ebooks. It saves massively on cost and space in my home. They are also great to read as the text and font size can be changed to suit my needs. I buy books that are beatitfully illustrated, art books, architecture, wildlife, photography, landscape, travel books. These are well loved and worth the space in my home.
In my experience, when people enthuse about books, they tend to be very narrow in what they mean: literary snobs who read fiction only, and definitely not that nasty science fiction or fantasy. Or else it's inverted snobs who only read badly written horror paperbacks.
But this video presents a much broader, and richer, world.
Fiction is great, but so is nonfiction. One of the best books I've read was by Mala Gupta whose sole purpose was to get readers to pass a savagely difficult industry exam in the Java programming language. Thanks to her I passed with flying colours!
I'm also pleased to be reminded that there's a whole world to books as physical items beyond their actual text - not to mention printed material other than books.
So, loving this.
For me, reading the standard books usually leads to arthritis coming up in my neck, so reading an e-book via the PC screen works much better.
Mentioning Arctic exploration books there is the U.S. Grinnell Expedition in Search of Sir John Franklin published 1854; I found the book in a small thrift store and its so fascinating
I own an antique store and we sell a few books here and there and there are some customers that refused to get those electronic books they like the classic old books. Some do both were they like the paper books and they use the electronic books but they'll always be people who want the paper books.
I really like byks as well!
I have a question. What is the best way to store your books? How do you keep those little brown spots from forming in the pages or on the edges of the pages of books?
The spots are called foxing.
I dont have much shelf space to buy loads of books for so what i do is read an ebook and if i like it i search for the best physical copy i can find. Costs a bit more but a good way to do it i think. I still do need more shelf space even doing that though lol.
E books are fine for technical reading and for supplemental reading. When I travel i load up on book in e book format
I didn't realize you were interested in the archaeology of northern Mesopotamia/eastern Syria. That is very near and dear to my interest! In fact, that is very closely related to the subject of my second book that I will publish soon called "hale like the sun" which details the Hittite invasion of Syria and the mitanni kingdom
14th Dec 2023 and 65.4k subs! ❤
Hi Tom! I also did IR in college! What kind of books do you collect personally? (Other than the subject matter in MENA that you are interested in) And do you recommend working at a bookstore yourself
Always good to meet a fellow IR scholar! I have a small collection of books about the cultural heritage sites I researched (N Iraq and Syria) and a larger collection about the town and university of St Andrews.
Working in a bookshop is all I’ve ever done and I love it! So would highly recommend!
E-books could be so much better. They have very poor searching and sorting, poor organisation and a very limited display. As a mass market product they work OK but they have a long way to go, but I do think they have a future. My concern with books though is the dreadful quality of modern paperbacks, both pages and covers (especially the covers). Having a cover curl up never used to happen, now it happens all the time.
That's not an ebook problem, that's a reader problem. I use a couple of epub format readers and they have many annotation, search, table of contents features. You must remove the drm protection from each book you buy to read it in any app you like.
more long videos please
Color of paper
Font
How many Volumes do you have of THE STRAND? Would love to read them!
I worked in publishing for the majority of my career (before becoming disabled). I love books, and do not enjoy ebooks. I love ink on paper, bookbinding by hand, book design, and type design. Unfortunately most of my old books (dating back to the 1800s) do smell like old books as none of them are in pristine condition.
Four weeks later 39.2 thousand...
I have dyslexia and I find ebook Bessarabia to enjoy books. But I still collect physical books
What’s the best way to start getting into rare book collecting? It’s such an expensive and what looks difficult hobby to get into. I’ve got the interest but don’t know where to go from here.
The other day I was in the Royal Ontario Museum’s storage/archive area (got access thanks to one of my professors), and there was a company raj era book of ethnographic paintings from India. The archival worker, the assistant to the big boss for their South Asian collection, was handling it with gloves. It did not have metal parts. Is there possibly a reason for this or is it a mistake on the museum’s part?
You mentioned being interested in Middle Eastern history and culture-what do you think of the Edward Said-Bernard Lewis debate?
If Simply Red opened a rare book dealership :D
I like e-books when reading scifi. And if reading older era stories, then the oldest paper book as possible.
Strange question, but did you ever publish your research on northern Iraq and Syria? It is the same field I studied, and am still in
BEEEEEEEEUUUUUUAUUTTTTIFUUUUUULLLL WOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE!!!!
That's a nice small book around 1:11 Which book is it?
How many books do you have
I can run out of electricity at any time, but I can hold a book until the Half-Life hits.
Unrelated question: what is the market for an original Gutenberg-printed (or attributed to) form of a Church Indulgence?
Hi Tom. I hope you can help me. I‘m the daughter of two antique dealers, both are dead now but I inherited my mother‘s private collection of antique fairy tale books from all over the world, many of them more than 100 years old. I would like to sell them but not via ebay and not to some local antique dealer who wants to buy low to sell high (I saw it often enough when my father made deals ;) - what should I do? Most of them are German like me, so I guess you can‘t help me. But maybe you know a trustworthy German colleague?
I read tonnes of lore on Lord of the rings and Warhammer digitally, that suits me just fine, but if I want to actually read Lord of the rings, I'm going to grab my physical copy (though its a pretty new copy, more like last edition than first edition).
This was posted two months ago for 3000 subscribers, he has 60 000 now. Wow
Yeah Tom this is a really good video!! The subscriber count is climbing!!!
# of ways to figure out if something is worth the cost?
Very cool channel
E books are fine not ideal but they are handy for travelling without a doubt.
With 9 bookcases I'm running out of room
OH MY GOD WHAT?!?!?!?!?!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Does the doomsday book actually exist ?
Yes. Domesday Book. National Archives at Kew.
I just keep i am legend pdf on my phone but nothing beats a real book
♥
I have a question. I'm a scifi lover and a dream of mine is to hold the first edition of the Time Machine by H.G. Wells... does such a book exist and if so, where?
1:14 one time I bought a used book by cs forester called barbary pirates on amazon. the listing said it was not ex-lib yet when it arrived it had a weird plastic outer cover and an area inside the book where a bookplate or circulation pocket was removed. I was disappointed big time of course because there was damage to the book from where they not very successfuly steam peeled whatever was there out. but it was obviously an ex-lib book contradicting what the seller had said. I don't see any problems with ex-lib books though (if left alone), in fact, I think they're cool. for ex what if you get an older book from a library that is ex lib and its from a library where a famous author once frequented. maybe one day they mention a book that influenced them that they read at their local library. you could be holding the book that they read from that library and I think that is cool. even if such books weren't so graced by the hands of a famous author though I still think theyre cool.
Bucks?
Thata a great origin story
Indian literature is very rich
Do you read indian mythology
Books made of paper require no money beyond its original manufacture
I would like e-books better if the OCR work was actually checked by a human. Because it is really annoying not being able to fix those errors.