Physical books making a comeback in the digital age

By Lethbridge Herald on August 21, 2025.

Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Literacy is more than just the ability to read. The words “literacy” and “books” are inseparable. Today, there are many options for both purchasing and reading books; including physical copies, ebooks, and audiobooks. You can buy new or used books from traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores like Chapters, online retailers like Amazon and Indigo, or through online marketplaces. 

In an era dominated by online giants and digital content, the significance of independent bookstores cannot be overstated. These local institutions serve as more than just retail outlets; they are cultural hubs, community anchors, and champions of literacy.

“Independent bookstores are definitely seeing a resurgence in the past few years,” says Analog Books co-owner Penny Warris. “When we opened in 2020 we were the only new book independent bookstore south of Calgary, now there are at least 6 or 7. Reading and buying physical books has become trendy.”

At present, Lethbridge has three independent bookstores: Analog Books, Big John’s Books and Echo books. Once upon a time, there were more. 

“We find our customers love the experience of coming into a physical bookstore and having the opportunity to find titles an algorithm would never have suggested, adding a much higher level of discovery. One of the most popular areas of the bookstore is our staff pick section. They love recommendations from real people, especially people they have come to know who share similar reading tastes. It is a very different experience from an on-line or big box store purchase. And of course, they love supporting local,” she says.

Independent bookstores champion literacy by fostering community, curating diverse collections, and hosting events that encourage reading and engagement with literature. They act as cultural hubs, offering personalized service, recommending unique titles, and providing spaces for readers to connect and discover new authors. 

Despite the rise of digital reading, printed books remain popular and in demand, with many readers preferring the physical experience. While e-books have their place, printed books continue to hold a strong position in the market, with sales and readership figures showing a sustained preference for physical copies. 

“In the bookselling industry, printed books are still the largest percentage of books purchased or borrowed from libraries. E-books are a much lower number. Audiobooks are trending up, and we work with LibroFM, an independent audio book service that supports indie bookstores. It is a one time purchase, or subscription based service that offers the same options as Audible – but is an option for those who don’t want to support Amazon and (Jeff) Bezos,” says Warris.

This preference is driven by the unique sensory and cognitive experience offered by print, as well as the appeal of books as physical objects and collectibles.

It’s a tactile experience. You can’t smell a computer screen, says Big John’s Books owner John Pyska on the enduring appeal of printed books. 

Big John’s Books is also Lethbridge’s oldest independent bookstore. Pyska he’s seen other independent bookstores come and go since 2008, when things started going downhill.

“Business has been pretty steady (for us). There’s always been those blips like in 2008 and obviously 2020. After 70 years…I think we have a very good chance of staying relevant,” he says.

Public libraries also offer access to physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks, often through digital lending platforms. Additionally, services like Project Gutenberg provide free access to public domain books.

In celebration of literacy, storytelling, and the literary arts, the Lethbridge Public Library (LPL) will hold its annual Word on the Street Festival on Saturday, Sept. 20 at the main branch downtown. 

The event will feature author talks, musical performances, food trucks, and children’s activities. It will also include an Indigenous Oral Tradition and Knowledge series in partnership with Reconciliation Lethbridge. 

The festival is part of a national celebration of literacy. For more information about Word on the Street visit the LPL’s website at http://www.lethlib.ca