The 21st century brings reading to a whole new level.

Do people prefer e-books or physical books? According  to CBS news, a study recorded in 2014 shows that a strong portion of high schoolers prefer e-books rather than physical copies. With today’s futuristic technology, more and more people seem to use online libraries rather than visit bookstores and take physical copies.

Students tend to prefer e-books over physical books because they are easily accessible and faster to read. However, several studies have shown that physical books can help students retain information better as well as prevent eye strain and sleep deprivation.  

E-books hold the power to carry an entire virtual library with you but can cause a loss of melatonin, a human hormone that helps the body sleep. The light from screens can also cause the eyes to become itchy, burned, and irritated.  

“It’s nice to have something small to tote around and very convenient to take somewhere,” says an English teacher at Woodbridge high school. “Online reading has definitely increased the number of books read in my household”. 

Physical copies of books can provide a better comfort for those who spend all day working on a screen and now want to read and relax. Books can last a lifetime and be passed down for generations, and that may not be possible with e-books due to storage space and old devices replaced with newer technology. 

“It’s cheaper to use online books and easy to carry around, although I prefer physical copies. It’s the experience of holding the book in your hands that makes me enjoy reading,” a student at Woodbridge high school remarked.

Whether you prefer to read online or hold a physical copy, reading can be free and accessible to you. Our world continues to evolve, and we are finding new ways to live every day. You can stop by our school library and check out books for free or stop by our local public Chinn Park Regional Library.