Digitizing Initiatives: The eBook future

Digitizing Initiatives

(above: Richard Lorenz, Solitude (or Prairie Twilight), 1904, Milwaukee Art Museum. Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

The eBook future

In the coming years publishers historically involved with paper printing processes will accelerate publishing digitized versions of their titles, commonly called eBooks, and directly sell them via online downloads through keyword advertising in channels such as Google Print. They will at the same time be preserving relationships with brick-and mortar book dealers for sale of paper-printed titles. Publishers will experiment with eBook pre-, co- and post-release of paper-printed versions. The electronic versions of the books will be read through a variety of electronic devices such as conventional desktop or laptop computers, PDAs or eBook readers.[2]

Eventually, for certain types of titles, eBook authors and publishers will maximize margins by bypassing both book dealers and libraries due to the reach, creativity and leveling effect of search engine firms. They will provide quick preview periods (flip through the pages) then rent their eBooks directly to the public on a time-metered basis -- with an option to purchase. This model could be less attractive for expensive in-print illustrated art books often bought with ornamental motives.

For in-print and out-of-print art books publishers will cautiously experiment with eBook and print-on-demand technology due to complex copyright issues relating to images in the books.

Beyond eBooks, publishers will soon sell assortments of full screen images of art works that cycle on HDTV screens, bringing additional beauty and culture to living areas for some, while providing others an opportunity to show-off a new, large and expensive acquisition -- and their appreciation of fine art.

(above: Anne Goldthwaite (1869-1944), Frances Greene Nix, c 1935-40, oil on canvas, 49.5 x 39.5 in., Johnson Collection, Spartanburg, South Carolina. Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons*)

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Commercial Ventures

The eBook future

Related Non-Profit Organizations

Methods and Costs

Notes

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*Tag for expired US copyright of object image:

TFAO's Distinguished Artists catalogue provides online access to biographical information for artists associated with this state. Also, Search Resource Library for online articles and essays concerning both individual artists associated with this state's history and the history of art centers and museums in this state. Resource Library articles and essays devoted to individual artists and institutions are not listed on this page.

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