Books, being one of the most indispensable tools to obtaining knowledge, have always been considered to be an unparalleled source of information through the lens of validity. For the time being, a growing number of individuals prioritize the usage of digital books over paper-based ones. While electronic books provide flexibility as well as unique features, they also present several downsides, distractions and visual impairment.
To commence with, one compelling argument in favor of online reading is an opportunity to access an unlimited number of books regardless of one’s location. Rather, online platforms, along with special applications available on almost any gadget, enable readers to download entire libraries, requiring no physical space. This effortless access to books makes digital books the most convenient option for people prone to read while travelling, for instance. Additionally, the benefits to using e-books extend beyond availability, giving readers an opportunity to use special features. To illustrate, modern virtual libraries offer a multitude of built-in functions, the prime example of which is a voice assistant. This may be especially helpful for disabled people, enabling them to listen to books, thereby facilitating reading. Another case in point is an opportunity to change font size based on preferences or using integrated vocabulary to read and translate words simultaneously. Correspondingly, these characteristics have resulted in the growing prevalence of e-books, with a potential to fully substitute traditional alternatives.
That being said, virtual books come with a good many disadvantages, the prime example of which is interruptions. This is because these books are accessible only via gadgets which are used for many other purposes, communication, entertainment, apart from reading, meaning that random notifications or messages may negatively affect readers’ concentration. For example, while reading paper books, many individuals can immerse themselves in the plot and make the most out of the process, whereas reading on the phone may cause interference induced by messages from friends, notifications from apps and games, which are, in most cases, simply inevitable. Moreover, an exorbitant amount of time spent in front of screen may be responsible vision impairment. Modern devices often emit ultraviolet rays, thought to be detrimental to eyesight. According to scientists, people ought not to spend more than 2 hours in front of screens per day in order to prevent their eyesight from dire consequences of overexposure to ultraviolet rays, which is why time spent reading e-books may need to be limited. Therefore, it is suggested that readers lean towards traditional books despite all the advantages e-books have to offer.
To sum up, not only do virtual libraries present flexibility, but they also make reading more accessible and variative. However, there is no denying the fact that with all people relying only on e-books, interferences, along with deterioration of eyesight, are likely to emerge as serious problems. Personally, I am of the opinion that people should control and regulate their reading habits so as to prevent continuous screen exposure.