Book printing figures defy doomsayers' predictions
19th May 2011
New figures have revealed that book printing figures have risen, despite predictions that the growth of e-readers would lead to the death of the traditional book.
Data published by Bowker shows that the number of printed books being published in the US in 2010 rose by five per cent, reflecting the continuing global demand for works in the traditional format.
The production of digital titles continued its exponential rise, with a 169 per cent increase in 2010 driven by e-reader titles, though the data illustrates there is room for both formats, said Kelly Gallagher, vice president of publishing services for Bowker.
'These publication figures from both traditional and non-traditional publishers confirm that print production is alive and well, and can still be supported in this highly dynamic marketplace,' she added.
Earlier this month, research issued by the Publishers Association showed that overall digital sales reached GBP 180 million in the UK last year, with the sharpest rise in interest among novels and consumer titles.