1. Durability: Paper is a relatively durable material that can withstand extensive handling and usage. It can resist wear and tear, making it a practical choice for books, which are meant to be read and used over time.
2. Lightweight and Flexible: Paper is lightweight, allowing books to be easily portable. The flexible nature of paper enables books to be folded, opened, and closed without significant damage, making them convenient to read and handle.
3. Printing Compatibility: Paper is suitable for various printing techniques, making it ideal for mass-producing books. The ink used for printing adheres well to paper, resulting in clear and legible text and images.
4. Cost-effectiveness: Paper is a relatively inexpensive material, which has contributed to the affordability of books and widespread literacy. It allows for the production of books on a large scale at a lower cost compared to some alternative materials.
5. Historical Significance: Paper has been used for centuries to record information, making it an integral part of the history and tradition of books. The practice of writing and printing on paper has evolved over time, becoming a well-established and widely accepted format for books and other written works.
6. Writing and Illustration: Paper provides a suitable surface for writing by hand, making it convenient for authors and artists to create drafts, sketches, and illustrations within a book.
7. Environmental Impact: While the production of paper can have environmental implications, advances in sustainable forestry practices and the development of recycled paper have helped reduce the impact of paper production on the environment.
It's important to note that while paper is the dominant material for books, there are other materials that have been used historically, such as parchment and vellum made from animal skin and bamboo. However, paper's combination of durability, affordability, printability, and historical significance has made it the most widely adopted material for bookmaking.