(go HERE for explanation of what this is)
This week's question:"How hard or easy is it to be a book lover in the Philippines? What are some of your frustrations as a Filipino reader (e.g. availability of books)? What are positive aspects of being a reader based in the Philippines (e.g. book prices are lower here than they are abroad)?"
My answer:
Okay, this question doesn't apply to me since I live in the U.S. but will answer it as it relates to being a book lover in the U.S. Anyway, I'm queen of frugal so I get most of my book from the library. Of course, this limits me to what they have but I'm fortunate to have a library that has great selections. I'm quite content with this set up ... helps my pocketbook and supports the library! :)
I have noticed quite a bit of bookstores available to the public here. From large chain bookstores to discount ones. There use to be a dollar book store in the mall nearby but before I took advantage of it more, it closed! Now, the bookstore chain, Borders, is closing nationwide ..bummer! I'm guessing with the advent of electronic readers, some stores are suffering. Speaking of e-readers, I got myself one this past Christmas but just haven't gotten into it yet. I love holding a bound book, flipping the crisp (or not) pages, ... just old fashion that way. Although, I've come to appreciate audiobooks. I find them quite convenient and functional for my busy schedule. Anyway, in general, the accessibility of books whether bound or not is considerable here. So perhaps the ease of access will aid in promoting the young and upcoming generation to a love of reading.
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i'm happy to support the local library (am in canada). i can only shake my head remembering how frustrating it was to get recent books back in the philippines. now i feel so spoiled :)
ReplyDeletehave a wonderful weekend!
I think I will always be jealous of readers who have access to great public libraries but since there's really nothing that I can do about that, I've learned to live with it. :P Hope you can discover another bargain bookstore in your area. Or maybe you can take advantage of library sales. I have fond memories of shopping for bargain books when I was in the States for a vacation in 2009.
ReplyDeleteHi Jinky! I've tried audiobooks but I can never catch up with what the narrator is saying. I think I have listening comprehension problems.
ReplyDeleteI got the Kindle last year but I'm not only using it mainly as a backup if I can't get a book on paper. Nothing beats the feeling of a real book in your hands.
My brother and mother use audio books, especially the Bible. They listen to it when doing something that doesn't require their full attention. And my brother really appreciates audio books since he's visually impaired.
ReplyDelete@aloi --Some seem to be quite resourceful ..I've noticed many filipino bloggers review very recent books. Yes, I agree about the spoiling ..I certainly feel that way too.
ReplyDelete@Chachic --Love my library! They have $5 all you can fill with books bag sale once a month. I haven't gone in awhile but I've found treasures that way. :)
@Patrick --I admit there is a bit of losing doing the audio but perfect for when doing chores and walking. --Yep, feel of a real book is great!
@Mati --I've just recently finished the bible in audio and I loved it (review to come)! --Huh, didn't cross my mind that it's awesome for the visually impaired ..glad your brother was resourceful.