Notes from Old Amsterdam

Last week we spent a few days on business in Holland and were struck by the presence of books- Yes physical books in all sizes, old and new. When one visits cities such as Amsterdam, you can’t but be impressed by the number of independent bookshops and used books on sale on what appears to be most streets. It’s also interesting to see locals reading books everywhere.

We have visited many European cities and cultures over the last few years, but have never seen such open reverence and connection with the printed book. This after all is the country that, through the likes of Phillips, has driven so much media innovation and change and boasts such ebook players as iRex, BeBook and Internet stores as Bol.com.

Maybe the king hasn’t quite got new clothes on yet.