Most young dealers of the Silicon Chip Era regard a reference library as merely a waste of space. Old Timers on the West Coast seem to retain a fondness for reference books that goes beyond the practical. Everything there is to know about a given volume may be only a click away, but there are still a few of us who'd rather have the book than the click. A bookman's love of books is a love of books, not merely of the information in them.
In the age of digital technology, many young dealers view reference libraries as obsolete and unnecessary. They favor quick access to information online, often seeing physical books as outdated. However, older generations, particularly those in the West Coast tech scene, continue to cherish reference books, appreciating their intrinsic value beyond just the practical information they provide. For them, these books represent a rich history and a deeper connection to knowledge.
This perspective emphasizes that love for books goes beyond their content; it encompasses a profound appreciation for the physical book itself. While information is readily accessible with a simple click, those who have a passion for reading tend to value the tactile experience of holding a book and turning its pages. This enduring love for books highlights a generational divide in how knowledge and information are consumed in the digital age.
