E-BOOKS, DIGITAL READING, AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE BOOK PUBLISHING ECONOMY OF NEPAL

Abstract

Digital reading is increasing due to the advancement of digital technology, expanding the using of e-book and online publishing. The traditional publication model is changing in Nepal, and with the adoption of a hybrid model. However, only limited studies have been conducted about the issue, so it is necessary to study the issue in the context of Nepal. The main objective of this study is to identify the transformation of publishing industries of Nepal through examining its evolution from print to digital publishing, assessing the impact of digital technologies on production, distribution, and reading practices, and identifying the opportunities, challenges, and policy implications associated with digital publishing. The study followed a phenomenological research design of qualitative research. Using the qualitative method, diffusion innovations theory was used as the theoretical guideline. Semi-structured open-ended questions were used to collect data from the field. Four participants were purposively selected including a bookseller, a university professor, a printing press manager, and a PhD-level student participated in the study as participants. Collected data were thematically analyzed for lived experiences and perceptions. Inadequate digital infrastructure, online piracy, weak copyright enforcement, limited digital literacy, and unequal internet access are the main challenges of e-book publishing in Nepal. Both traditional and new online system book publishing is go side by side; however, the economy of book publishing is at the point of transformation. The study will useful for policymakers, publishers, educational institutions, and industry practitioners in promoting a sustainable, innovative, and competitive publishing economy in Nepal.