A History of the Book in America

This comprehensive volume charts the dramatic transformation of American print culture from World War II through the digital age, examining how government expansion, higher education growth, and Cold War politics reshaped publishing. The book meticulously documents how consolidation and diversification patterns established in earlier eras collided with globalization and emerging technologies, fundamentally altering how Americans produce and consume the written word. Thirty-three expert contributors provide a multi-faceted exploration of the economic, social, and cultural forces that redefined books, newspapers, and magazines during this turbulent period.

What distinguishes this work is its ambitious scope and collaborative approach, offering readers both panoramic overviews and granular case studies of publishing's evolution. The collection proves particularly valuable for understanding the complex transition from print dominance to our current multimedia landscape, making it essential reading for students of media history and anyone curious about how information ecosystems transform. Through its detailed examination of technological disruption and cultural change, this volume provides crucial context for navigating today's rapidly evolving literary marketplace.