A World Without Books?

I have to say that I am deeply saddened by the loss of the book stores in our town. In January, one closed. That wasn't that much of a surprise really. But then the announcement came that Borders was officially closing its doors permanently. Now, this was distressing news because I browse through my Waldenbooks about twice a week. They always send me coupons so I never had to pay full price. I got to know the employees a bit. They were all very friendly so I feel quite bad that they are losing their jobs. I have been trying to get in there to get some deals at their going out of business sale now but I get sad every time I walk through those doors. The book shelves are becoming quite empty.

Then last week, I read that our Christian book store at the mall is closing their doors, too.They have been around for many years. I have to admit that I haven't gone in there for a while because I can get the deals at Borders but I assumed they would always be there. Their shelves are even more bare right now.

How can 3 book stores close in just a few months? Yeah, those crazy Kindles have struck. I can't bring myself to have one. I refuse. I love books. I love to browse the book shelves. I love to hold an actual book in my hand. I love to turn the pages of a book. Shopping online for a book does not have the same feeling as browsing through a book store. So yes, I am very saddened by this whole thing. The only book store left in town is the dinky used book store downtown. So, I am building up my library so that I will have books to read for a while. My book case is stock full.

Maybe one day an actual book will be obsolete and there will not even be a need for a library in our world. I think that would be rather tragic. In the meantime, I will enjoy picking up a good book and get lost in it. Just wouldn't be the same for me if I were holding a Kindle. That is all.

~Kim~