Paperback or hardcover?

[Fiat Lux Aeterna]

I agree with you on that, Befrant, but I prefer paperbacks, because I always feel scared that I'm gonna mess up the flyleaf crying of hardcovers, and I don't want to take it off because I might loose it. Besides, I take good enough care of my books that it doesn't matter how they're bound - they are safe ^.^  

[Reglare Excile]

I guess you're right with that Aeterna.

I'm sorry my books. I can't take good care of you much. crying
I feel ashame.  

[cairo107]

Paperbacks, because of the price difference. As well as they're considerably more comfortable to read in bed. Unless the hardcovers are on sale. Additionally, hardcovers are easy to take care of.  

[Priestess of Neptune]

I shudder to consider what the rising price of books will suggest to those who might read, but do not yet. Reading should never become something reserved for the wealthy or elite, otherwise the world shall once again have the equivalent of listening to sermons in Latin, while being largely uneducated.

The Kindle offers an alternative to paperback/hardcovers. Each file is the same price as a paperback, and anything in the public domain is free (visit the sticky of useful links). On a similar note, ebooks are as safe as one's computer is. Be certain to break for a few minutes every hour, and stare at something 8 or more metres distant, however.