Audiobooks have been around for a while. The difference is that modern technology has made it easier for both producers and consumers to access them. In the olden days, audiobooks were available on LPs or cassette tapes. While these formats worked well enough back in the day, they were cumbersome. You could only store a set number of volumes. After all, having a healthy library took up quite a bit of physical space.
When CDs eventually emerged onto the scene, it was quite difficult to make an adequate transition as many of the same limitations affected CDs. With the emergence of digital media, the prospect of widespread consumption of audiobooks became a reality. That is why we are going to look at four reasons why audiobooks are here to stay.
1. Life Is Busier Than It Used to Be
Even with people spending more time at home nowadays, life is much busier than it used to be. As such, most people just don’t have as much time to sit down and curl up with a good book. That’s why audiobooks have become a favorite of folks who are on the go. Audiobooks provide a convenient format to consume books regardless of the situation you’re in.
2. Multitasking with Audiobooks
Speaking of busy folks, audiobooks are a great way for busy folks to double up on activities. For instance, it’s become increasingly common for people to listen to audiobooks as they cook, workout, or spend time in the garden. As such, folks can use up the time used for other activities to listen to novels, learn a new skill, or get information on a subject. Arguably, this is the most attractive quality of audiobooks.
3. Audiobooks Are Convenient
There is no question that audiobooks are convenient. They provide a great opportunity for people to learn about topics they truly enjoy without having to lug around heavy print books, CDs, or even audiocassettes. All you need is some type of digital storage means and you’re good to go. You can download audiobooks right to your phone, plug them into your car’s stereo, and you’re all set for a long drive. If you’re going on a long flight, you can load a few audiobooks and you’re all set. In the past, you would have had to lug a bunch of books around. This is why lots of folks prefer audiobooks.
4. You Need Less Time
A typical audiobook can take a couple of hours to listen to. Longer ones may take about three to five hours. This is a significant difference when compared to the amount of time it would take to read a regular book. Getting through a novel may take you twice the time if you’re a fast reader. Sure, speed reading may enable you to get through an average novel in a matter of hours. Still, it will take you much longer to read the book than listen to it.
Indeed, audiobooks are here to stay. As a writer and/or publisher, you must give audiobooks a good, long look. They could provide you with a great opportunity to make your publishing business grow.
