From Print to Digital: Technological Transformation in Printing and E-Book Readership in Bengaluru

Abstract

Printing began around 3000 BCE, with the protoElamite and Sumerian civilisations using cylinder seals to authenticate clay tablets. The seal blocks followed them, hammered coins, pottery imprints, and fabric printing. In the 13th century, metal type characters were developed in China, Japan, and Korea. These printing systems provided the basis for advanced techniques. Johannes Gutenberg invented the Gutenberg printing press, which enabled faster, more efficient book production. The Gutenberg printing press enabled the mass production of printed materials. The offset press for metal printing was created by Robert Barclay in 1875. In 1904, Ira Washington Rubel applied the technology to paper, which relied on a basic chemical reaction that separates oil and water. The evolution of printing technology in books reached its peak with digitalisation, making the 21st century a significant period. In this context, the present research aims to examine the digital revolution in books from the 20th century to the 21st century. Its impact and implications on eBook readers in Bengaluru are also considered. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Using the quantitative research method, a structured questionnaire was administered to 256 eBook readers in Bengaluru. Under the qualitative approach, a content analysis has been undertaken to examine the printing revolution from antiquity to the modern era. The study considers various news articles, research papers and books for the content analysis. As a developing country for 75 years, India has ambitious plans to become a developed country by 2047. So, knowing the status of e-books and their impact on readers is vital.