Relic of Literature

I found these order forms tucked within the pages of a book that I recently borrowed. Although 1985 (1986?) was not that long ago, it still feels a bit ancient to me, haha! It was a time before I was born... 

When I was in elementary school, library cards were still in use. I was rather fond of the old system of writing our names on the cards and tucking the cards into their sleeves. Having an electronic system is definitely more efficient, but somehow feels impersonal...

With the existence of electronic devices, people probably read real books less frequently, or even stop reading literature altogether. There are so many easily accessible and entertaining things on the internet that makes sitting down and reading seem so boring. Reading novels often requires one to be patient, thoughtful, and reflective, all 3 qualities of which I feel I am losing... 

I loved reading books when I was in elementary and secondary school, but ever since I started reading manga, I have read fewer and fewer novels each year, until I stopped reading novels altogether. Online, manga are usually updated chapter by chapter, weekly or monthly. For many manga, each chapter brings an exciting new story, complete with drawings and words, so I get immediate satisfaction after finishing a chapter. It's like watching an episode of a TV show or a movie, and almost everything is spelled out (unless the genre is mystery) so I don't have to think. Recently, I took up reading novels again, and found myself unengaged in the activity. My brain has become so accustomed to constant stimulation that it accepts everything at face value without feeling, questioning, or thinking about it. Personally, I think this indifference is frightening...

Right now, I am pushing through the novel that I borrowed. I have to read it slowly, since it is not in English (my most fluent language), but I find that it forces my brain to be more involved, making the whole experience more enjoyable. I can't give up manga (they're too good >.<), but I will definitely try to get back into the habit of reading books, too.