What Effect Does the Internet Have on Bookstores?

The world of reading is an ever-evolving form of education and relaxation. Because the Internet now provides many services for purchasing, reading and enjoying books, many people fear that bookstores will become obsolete. There are positive and negative effects that have impacted bookstores since the Internet began:

Positive Effects

• Encourages more people to read because more people have access to the Internet than a bookstore.




• Allows readers to find out about specials and sales at a bookstore without spending money on advertisements.




• Readers have access to millions of books online that a bookstore cannot possibly have on their shelves.




• Bookstores can provide service in the store as well as online. Stores may actually need less staff because customers can use online services to search, find and order books.




• People are able to access books from the comfort of their own home.

Negative Effects

• Readers are more likely to order a book online rather than go to a bookstore. It is more convenient.




• Customers can compare prices and purchase from other bookstores that may offer reduced prices.




• Because people do not come into the bookstore, they are less likely to purchase other items or browse the store for new books on the shelf.




• Book prices may need to be reduced to encourage shoppers to come to the store rather than buy online.




• Readers are able to get pirated or illegal copies of books from the Internet. This activity is detrimental to the success of writers, publishers and bookstores.