book

A book is a bound or digital collection of written or printed content, usually produced as a sequence of pages. It encompasses fiction and non-fiction across many disciplines and formats, and may include maps, illustrations, or photographs. A book is often distinguished from shorter publications by its length and formal structure.

Historically, books evolved from clay tablets and scrolls to the codex, which became standard in the ancient world. The invention of movable-type printing in the 15th century enabled mass production, expanding access and literacy. The late 20th century introduced digital formats such as e-books and audiobooks, broadening distribution.

Books typically include a title page, author name, publisher, publication date, and edition. They may contain chapters, tables of contents, indexes, and illustrations. Formats include hardback, paperback, e-books, and audio formats. Genres range from fiction to non-fiction, including reference works, poetry, and textbooks.

Production involves writing, editing, design, typography, printing or encoding for digital formats, and binding. Distribution occurs through bookstores, libraries, and online retailers. Metadata such as ISBNs, licenses, and digital rights management help organize cataloging and access.

Books have long served education, culture, and record-keeping. They preserve languages and ideas, enable research and storytelling, and reflect diverse cultures. Preservation relies on careful conservation of physical copies and robust digital archiving, while copyright and licensing shape access and reuse.