Bookshelves in the Age of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The book "Bookshelves in the Age of the COVID-19 Pandemic" explores the cultural phenomenon of bookshelves during the pandemic, examining the complex relationship between the physical book and its digital manifestation, bookselling, accessibility, and pandemic reading habits.

Format: Hardback
Length: 297 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a significant cultural phenomenon, with bookshelves becoming a central focus of attention. In response, Bookshelves in the Age of the COVID-19 Pandemic offers a comprehensive scholarly exploration of the phenomenon, providing a detailed examination of the social practices surrounding bookshelves since the pandemic's inception in March 2020. Authored by Lydia Pyne, the book brings together 17 scholars from six countries, each with expertise in literary studies, book history, publishing, visual arts, and pedagogy. Through a critical lens, the volume explores the multifaceted role of bookshelves during this unprecedented time.

The book delves into the intricate relationship between the physical book and its digital manifestation through online platforms, a relationship that has gained widespread public and scholarly attention due to the global shift to remote work and the proliferation of online pedagogy. It examines how the pandemic has impacted bookselling, book accessibility, and pandemic reading habits, shedding light on the changing dynamics of the book industry.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of bookshelves as physical spaces that foster creativity, connection, and community. During the pandemic, bookshelves have become multifunctional spaces, serving as not only storage units but also gathering places for families, friends, and communities to connect and share experiences. The book showcases examples of innovative uses of bookshelves, such as quarantine libraries, book swap events, and community book drives, highlighting the ways in which bookshelves have become a source of resilience and inspiration during these challenging times.

Another important aspect of the book is its examination of the cultural significance of bookshelves in different contexts. It explores how bookshelves have been used as symbols of power, knowledge, and cultural heritage in various historical and cultural contexts, and how they continue to play a vital role in shaping our understanding of literature, history, and culture. The book also considers the role of bookshelves in promoting diversity and inclusivity, highlighting how they can be used to showcase books from diverse authors and perspectives, and to create spaces that encourage dialogue and understanding.

In conclusion, Bookshelves in the Age of the COVID-19 Pandemic is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of the cultural phenomenon of bookshelves during the pandemic. Through the contributions of 17 scholars from six countries, the book offers valuable insights into the role of bookshelves in shaping our lives and communities. It serves as a testament to the power of literature and the enduring significance of bookshelves in our modern world.

Weight: 549g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031052910
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022