People Who Use E-Readers Are Uneducated... Say What?!

I was thrilled to come across a new-to-me bookstore this past weekend, especially now that Borders is gone. We stumbled upon it quite by accident - this quaint little store with some very pretty displays. The owner was sitting behind the counter and was talking to someone when I went in, giving it that warm and friendly feeling.

As I was browsing the books, I couldn't help but overhear the conversation. It went from local gossip to the subject of e-readers. The tone got louder on this subject, as if they wanted me to hear and possibly put in a comment or two. Sadly, I was mortified at what I heard. These two women were saying that people who use e-readers are uneducated. They wouldn't know a good book if it hit them between the eyes. Only those with a good education in literature would understand the love for the touch and smell of a physical book, let alone read a classic!

The comments continued and I realized both ladies were looking at me. I knew it was time for me to leave. As I started for the door, I reached in my purse and pulled out my Nook and said, "Sorry, I'm too uneducated to purchase your books" and left.

I am a huge advocate of getting books into the hands of people. I couldn't care less what medium they are in, as long as people are reading. I love my e-reader because I can get OOP books from places like Project Gutenberg and Manybooks - books that might be gone forever if we relied on physical books. The best part is they are FREE. For just the cost of an e-reader (about 5 hardbound books) one can have a huge collection of good literature at their fingertips at no extra cost! And let's not forget the libraries. E-books are available for download from there, as well. This makes it possible for anyone to be able to enjoy good books inexpensively.

Don't get me wrong, I love physical books - especially the older ones. There's nothing that smells or feels like an old book. With that said, I think I'm going to go sniff a few books...