Books still relevant in technology explosion era

KUALA LUMPUR: Books are still relevant as a source of reference despite facing competition from the technology explosion.
Having said that, National Library of Malaysia (PNM) director-general Datuk Nafisah Ahmad added, books were still the most trustworthy source of reference.
"The internet may offer quick access to the material needed but it must be remembered that the information given may not all be true or accurate.
"Hence, books, whether in digital or physical format, are still the best source because they are published after being edited and reviewed.
"In the internet, anyone can upload information and knowledge that they may probably not even have a good understanding of or be sure of the authenticity," she told reporters after the ''Let''s read together for 10 minutes'' programme at Auditorium PNM here today.
She said, to ensure for the book publishing industry to remain competitive against the speed of technology, PNM had arranged various plannings to assist industry players.
Among the initiatives are to provide a special fund for them to carry on writing and book publishing aside from carrying out scheme of selling books directly without going through a third party.
"This measure is not only important in ensuring the continuity of the book writing and publishing industry, at the same time, it is hoped that the increase production of books yearly in the country.
"With Malaysia''s current population of 31.7 million, the industry must publish about 31,000 books a year," she said. — Bernama