The new Millennium
will be dominated by the tremendous progress that has been made in computer science,
thus triggering a complete change in our commercial and private communication
and information behaviour.
Does this mean that the
paper era will come to an end? The answer is most definitely "No".
Clearly there will be a huge amount of data being generated electronically,
but the issue is how to preserve it. The difficulties of data storage over
a long period of time are well known (for example, the durability of disks;
frequent changes of hard and software, electronic breakdowns etc.). Once again,
paper offers the most convenient and durable storage option. The advance in
technology will affect only the printing of items like short-lived handbooks
and encyclopaedias.
Reading a book will remain a great pleasure into the future and paper, as
a ubiquitous material with its many uses, will continue to play an influential
role. Many artists will continue to express themselves by using this most versatile
material.
