Are dead trees going to play a part in dissemination of information in the near future, or will we be pinging electrons back and forth? We had a demonstration of an electronic version of a magazine today, complete with sticky notes and marginalia. While it seems all shiny and full of required bells and whistles, is it what I really want? (Those that know I am never farther than arm's length from an electronic tether may stop laughing now).
Seriously though, what will the New York Times find out when they start charging for a premium electronic version? It failed the first time, but then that was only a half-hearted effort. I wouldn't pay for it, but I would consider shelling out a few dollars for the Anchorage Daily News, Kansas City Star and Wine Spectator.
I belong to several organizations that offer electronic or paper versions of publications. In every case, I have selected electronic. Personally, I see the added value in the additional information people can share about a subject. As an example, an article about US train service showed the benefit of not having a real dining car anymore. Economy is all good and well if you are only commuting from NY to DC (a couple hours), but there was a whole contingent forgotten, those of us that like taking long-distance trips like Chicago to Dallas (a couple days). How many microwave hotdogs can you eat? The discussion pointed that flawed thinking out to the provincial east coast author.
Should the AARCTimes and Respiratory Care keep up with the Jetson's or stay mired in the quaintness of wood pulp? Should Letters to the Editor be glowing phosphorus dots or ink-based dots that rub off on your fingers? Is the proper question "Whither the book?" or "Wither the book?"
My opinions are probably not normal, so feel free to enlighten me.