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The Revenge of Analog

Real Things and Why They Matter
May 31, 2017
The Revenge of Analog: Real Things and Why They Matter written by David Sax is an exploration into society's growing desire for more tactile, human-centric experiences. This insight first revealed itself to the author in 2012, when he noticed a record store open in his Toronto neighbourhood. After spending a decade replacing physical music collections with virtual ones, music lovers were rediscovering the pleasure of physically browsing and buying music and record stores are thriving. Most significant is the demographic buying these records -- young music lovers who grew up with digital music! The author soon discovered that the very human need for social interactions and the need for all of our senses to be stimulated are at the heart of the revenge of analog. Board Game Cafes are increasing in popularity, encouraging players to create and maintain real friendships. Paintball and Escape Rooms replicate video games but provide a real experience and social interaction. Niche focused print magazines are providing a venue for bloggers who want a level of credibility that isn't achievable online. Independent bookstores are growing once again with a clientele who appreciate the assistance of staff who can link their reading tastes with recommendations. Analog schools have proven to be a better learning environment. Children need to physically touch, smell and, yes, even taste paint. Tech companies design analog work spaces with white boards, ping pong tables and free meals to encourage more interpersonal interaction and collaboration in a workplace which would otherwise lean toward isolation. Sax, a writer and reporter, concludes that as digital technology continues to rightfully thrive, the more important analog becomes to our overall well being. This insightful, well researched and thoroughly documented book is available at the Stratford Public Library through our Perth County Information Network of Libraries in print, e-book and audio formats.