阿曼《观察家报》 11 月 24 日文章，原题：听有声书也算 " 阅读 " 吗？ 作为一名图书管理员，我最近经常 听到的一个疑问是：听有声书也能算得上是阅读吗？很多人都不同意。博览群书往往带有一种自豪感， 甚至是优越感。如果告诉别人你只是"听"过某本书，说出口时总有些不好意思。美国全国公共广播电台 （NPR）与国际知名民调机构益普索集团近期联合开展的一项民意调查显示，41%的美国成年人认为有 声书不算阅读。 我过去也曾持有相同看法。直到几年前，在机场的一家酒吧里，我注意到邻座的男士正在刷手机，手机 里传出的机械声音高速朗读着每一个字。起初我以为那是无意义的杂音，后来才意识到他是盲人，正在 使用手机的屏幕文字朗读功能。看着他全神贯注于听到的文字、并领会其含义的样子，我突然意识到， 他的阅读方式与我用眼睛阅读本质上并无不同。 由于我患有阅读障碍，阅读对我来说从未轻松过。那次偶然的相遇后，我在自己的手机上尝试了类似的 辅助功能，结果令我豁然开朗。生平第一次，我能够轻松跟上内容，毫不费力地吸收思想，并且保持前 所未有的专注度。 我的经历并非个例，人们对阅读的定义早已跟不上如今人们实际的阅读方式。阅读能培养同理心、专注 ...

Core Viewpoint - The enthusiasm for reading among young people is still strong, as evidenced by the bustling atmosphere at the Beijing Book Fair, which showcases a vibrant community of readers [1][2]. Group 1: Reading Trends - Young readers have access to a wider range of reading resources, making it easier to find and borrow books [1]. - There is a shift towards diverse reading methods, including e-books and audiobooks, alongside traditional paper books [1]. - The presence of reading communities, both online and offline, encourages social interaction and shared reading experiences [1]. Group 2: Challenges in Reading - Many young people face difficulties in finding time to read due to busy schedules and distractions from electronic devices [2]. - A survey indicates that attention span issues and the tendency to abandon reading are common challenges among youth [2]. - The fast-paced digital age makes it harder for individuals to dedicate time to deep reading and reflection [2]. Group 3: Encouraging Reading Habits - Initiatives such as book donations to students and reading awards in universities aim to foster a culture of reading [2]. - Creating a supportive environment for reading can help young people recognize the value of books [2]. - Emphasizing the importance of a calm mindset is crucial for developing a consistent reading habit [2].

Core Viewpoint - The article predicts a "six declines and six rises" trend for the upcoming year, highlighting significant shifts in various industries and sectors. Group 1: Declines - Real estate prices are expected to decrease [1] - Coal prices are projected to drop [1] - Sales revenue from physical clothing stores is anticipated to decline [1] - The number of customers visiting traditional bank branches is likely to decrease [1] - Sales of physical books are expected to fall [1] - The number of cable TV set-top box users is predicted to decline [1] Group 2: Rises - The output value of the artificial intelligence industry is expected to grow [1] - The number of online education users is projected to increase [1] - The generation of green energy is anticipated to rise [1] - Sales from e-commerce live streaming are expected to improve [1] - The market size of smart home products is likely to expand [1] - Investment in medical technology research and development is expected to increase [1]

Group 1 - The article emphasizes that funds are very suitable investment products for ordinary people [1] - It suggests that new investors should consider long-term investment strategies and prepare psychologically before investing [1] - A free course is offered to help new investors understand fund investment from scratch [1] Group 2 - The article discusses the importance of obtaining quality information sources for effective learning in investment [5] - It highlights that classic books provide the highest value of information, as they present core concepts that have stood the test of time [6] - Quality magazines and official media are recommended as reliable sources, such as major securities newspapers [7] - The article warns against relying too much on short videos and social media for investment information, as they often contain limited and potentially outdated content [9] - It concludes that allocating more time to reading books and quality publications will yield better learning outcomes [10]

Core Insights - The article discusses the transformation of public libraries in South Korea, highlighting their evolution from traditional study spaces to multifunctional cultural hubs that cater to community needs [1][2][3] Group 1: Historical Context - Since the 1960s, Seoul has experienced rapid economic growth and urbanization, leading to a surge in population and a utilitarian view of public libraries as serious study environments [1] - The 1990s saw a slowdown in population growth, and with democratization and economic development, South Korea became a developed nation, diminishing the appeal of libraries as primary learning spaces [1] - By the 21st century, rising living standards allowed students to study at home or in private institutions, further reducing the libraries' attractiveness [1] Group 2: Recent Developments - Contrary to predictions of their decline, public libraries have gained popularity since 2010, driven by a growing demand for public spaces for cultural activities and gatherings [2] - Investment in public libraries has increased, with 40 new libraries opening in Seoul by around 2020, many in previously underserved areas [2] - Notable examples include the Paju Book City Library, which redefined itself as a multifunctional cultural space, and the opening of the Yeonhwa Pavilion Library in Jeonju, showcasing traditional Korean architecture [2] Group 3: Future Outlook - The impact of artificial intelligence on information production and consumption is expected to influence the future of libraries, particularly regarding the role of physical books [2] - Despite the digital age, many still regard physical books as the only "real" books, suggesting that public libraries may evolve into repositories of human-generated knowledge [2] - The aging population in South Korea is rediscovering libraries, with retirees using them as quiet spaces for preparing for second careers and enjoying cultural programs [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing landscape of reading in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of traditional reading despite the rise of digital media and quick information consumption [1][3]. Group 1: Reading Trends - In 2024, the average adult in China is expected to read 4.79 physical books per year, while daily exposure to digital media exceeds 3 hours [1]. - The shift from traditional reading to digital formats has led to a quicker consumption of information, with tools like AI summarizing books in seconds [1]. Group 2: Importance of Traditional Reading - The essence of reading remains unchanged; it fosters critical thinking, deep understanding, and creativity that cannot be achieved through quick summaries or digital content [1][3]. - Understanding cultural references and literary quotes requires a background in reading, as illustrated by examples from popular media that misinterpret original literary meanings [2][3]. Group 3: Broader Perspectives - Individuals who read extensively develop a richer inner world and can engage in deeper discussions beyond mundane topics, contrasting with those who do not read [3]. - Reading allows individuals to transcend time and space, gaining insights from historical figures and philosophies, which is not possible through superficial digital engagement [3]. Group 4: The Need for Reading in the Digital Age - Despite advancements in technology, the emotional and philosophical depth found in classic literature remains relevant and necessary for a well-rounded life [3]. - The article argues that in the mobile internet era, there is an even greater need to read more and read well, as information alone does not equate to knowledge or wisdom [3].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the decline of traditional reading habits and the diminishing presence of "readers" in the digital age, emphasizing a shift towards fragmented information consumption over deep reading [1][2][3]. Publishing Industry Trends - In the U.S., the print run for academic books has drastically decreased from 800-1000 copies to around 200 copies, indicating a significant decline in traditional publishing [2]. - A survey highlighted that college students are reading less, with reading being overshadowed by platforms like TikTok and Instagram, leading to a perception of reading as an outdated cultural practice [2][3]. - The Chinese publishing industry is experiencing a similar trend, with a reported 31% decline in physical book consumption and an average daily reading time of only 24 minutes compared to 108 minutes spent on mobile browsing [5][6]. Market Dynamics - The overall book market is facing a downturn, with major publishers reporting a 20-30% drop in sales compared to the previous year, and first print runs for new books decreasing significantly [6][7]. - The lack of best-selling titles is evident, with books selling over 10,000 copies being rare, and the industry is increasingly reliant on digital formats and new business models [7][8]. Cultural Implications - The article suggests that traditional reading and the concept of authorship are being challenged by the rise of self-publishing and AI, leading to a cultural shift where reading is no longer a primary means of knowledge acquisition [9][10]. - The author expresses concern that the decline in reading habits could lead to a loss of critical thinking and empathy, which are fostered through deep reading of complex texts [4][5]. Future Outlook - The future of the publishing industry may see a transformation where physical books become a luxury item, akin to vinyl records, while digital content and multimedia experiences take precedence [8][10]. - There is a call for systemic solutions to promote reading among students and the general public, emphasizing the need for a cultural revival of reading practices [11].

Core Viewpoint - The decline of traditional reading habits is evident, with digital media consumption overshadowing book reading, leading to a cultural shift in how knowledge and entertainment are perceived and consumed [1][10][11]. Publishing Industry Trends - In the U.S., academic book print runs have drastically decreased from 800-1000 copies to around 200, indicating a significant decline in traditional publishing [2][5]. - The global digital reading penetration reached 58% by 2023, with the Z generation (post-95) spending an average of 6.2 hours daily on screen reading, while paper book consumption has dropped by 31% [5][6]. - In China, the average adult spends only 24 minutes daily reading paper books compared to 108 minutes on mobile browsing, highlighting a stark contrast in reading habits [5][6]. Market Challenges - The publishing industry is facing a crisis, with major publishers reporting a 20-30% decline in sales year-over-year, and initial print runs for new books dropping significantly [6][7][8]. - The market for bestsellers has shrunk, with very few titles selling over 100,000 copies, and even selling over 10,000 copies is considered a success [7][8]. Cultural Implications - The shift towards digital media and the decline of deep reading are reshaping cultural consumption, with traditional books becoming akin to luxury items rather than essential knowledge sources [9][10]. - The concept of authorship is evolving, with the rise of self-publishing and AI-generated content challenging the traditional publishing model [12][13]. Future Outlook - The publishing industry is undergoing a transformation towards "digital integration," focusing on multi-media products and IP development, indicating a potential decline in the relevance of traditional print books [8][10]. - There is a call for systemic solutions to promote reading habits and protect the publishing industry, emphasizing the importance of reading as a fundamental aspect of cultural survival [13][14].

Core Insights - The publishing industry in the US, Germany, the UK, and France shows varied performance in 2024, with the US experiencing a revenue increase driven by strong performance in mass market, education, and digital publishing [1] - Germany's publishing revenue grew by 1.8% to €9.88 billion (approximately $10.4 billion), supported by a resurgence in reading among young people and growth in audiobooks [1][16] - The UK saw a slight revenue increase of 1% to £7.2 billion (approximately $9.1 billion), bolstered by strong exports and digital business [21] - France's publishing revenue declined by 1.5% to €2.902 billion (approximately $3.054 billion), attributed to the rapid growth of the second-hand book market and other factors [1][8] Group 1: Revenue Trends - US publishing revenue increased by 6.5% to $14.2 billion, primarily driven by mass market, education, and digital publishing [1] - Germany's total publishing revenue grew by 1.8% to €9.88 billion, with strong performances in fiction, children's, education, and non-fiction categories [17] - The UK publishing revenue rose by 1% to £7.2 billion, with export market revenue increasing by 3% to £4.5 billion [21] Group 2: Market Dynamics - In Germany, 57% of sold books were published over a year ago, indicating a preference for older titles amid a decline in new book releases [17] - France's new book releases decreased by 1.6% to 36,200 titles, as publishers aimed to manage market saturation and optimize inventory [10] - The UK saw a 5% increase in mass market book sales, driven by a rise in fantasy romance novels [21] Group 3: Digital Publishing Growth - The US mass market for e-books and digital audiobooks continued to grow, with digital audiobooks experiencing double-digit growth [4] - In Germany, e-book revenue saw slight growth, while audiobook revenue increased by 7.3% [4] - The UK reported a 17% increase in digital publishing revenue, with audiobook revenue surging by 31% [4][24] Group 4: Copyright Trade Changes - In France, the number of sold copyrights decreased by 2.6% to 14,300, reflecting challenges in international sales due to geopolitical factors [14] - Germany experienced a 2.2% increase in sold copyrights, with children's and fiction books being the primary categories [19] - The UK’s export market for publishing remains strong, with significant contributions from the US, Australia, and Germany [21] Group 5: Consumer Behavior - In Germany, the number of young readers aged 16-29 increased, with a notable rise in the 16-19 age group by 9.6% [18] - France's book sales volume decreased by 3.1% to 426 million copies, influenced by the growth of the second-hand book market and other factors [8] - The UK’s digital publishing revenue accounted for 48% of total revenue, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards digital formats [24]

Core Insights - The article discusses a personal journey of rediscovering reading habits amidst a reading revival trend, highlighting the explosive growth of audiobooks and e-books [3][4] - The author shares five strategic lifestyle changes that helped prioritize reading, emphasizing the importance of finding time for personal enjoyment [5] Summary by Sections - **Reading Revival**: The article notes a significant increase in reading activities, with the author reading over 100 books in a year and experiencing improved well-being [4] - **Strategies for Reading**: - The author reads three books simultaneously, categorizing them for different contexts [6] - Television watching has been minimized, allowing more time for reading [7] - Early mornings are utilized for reading before children wake up, creating a peaceful start to the day [7] - A Kindle is used for on-the-go reading, while physical books are preferred for non-fiction [8] - Audiobooks are listened to during driving or household chores, with a focus on light, easy-to-follow content [8] - **Tracking and Prioritization**: - A note-taking app is used to track read books, enhancing memory and providing a sense of accomplishment [9] - Reading is prioritized over other activities, offering a valuable escape from daily stressors [9]