In a tech-driven world full of screens and devices, more people are leaving the digital realm behind and embracing a return to all things analog. They are unplugging their e-readers and opting for hardcover and paperback books. Music aficionados are swapping Spotify for the authentic sound of a vinyl record. Streaming service subscriptions are being cancelled in favor of DVD home libraries. In the process, they are finding like-minded individuals and building community.
What is driving this trend? Is it nostalgia, or something more?
Books
Denise Phillips, owner of Gathering Volumes book store in Perrysburg, has embraced analog for many years. She tried to use e-readers in the past, but found that she had a hard time absorbing the content electronically.
“The main benefit that I find when I am able to disconnect is the ability to focus, which I think is due to combatting digital fatigue by reducing screen time and escaping algorithmic curation,” she said. “Similarly, escaping screens reduces my stress. Analog, tactile hobbies like quilting, journaling or reading offer me a therapeutic escape.”
Phillips sees the benefits of reading for all ages.
“Books offer a sensory and tactile escape from digital distractions, serving as a peaceful retreat for relaxation and stress reduction. A personal library offers a dedicated space for reflection and contemplation.”
While reading is usually a solitary pursuit, she has found that books can open a pathway to connection and community.
“Books create shared experiences in the form of book clubs, discussions and events. People reading the same story, then sharing, even in casual moments, can spark meaningful conversations. Stories give people a common language about ideas big and small.”
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Music
It has been more than a decade since Marie Kondo ushered in an era of minimalism. Suddenly, people were tidying up their homes and getting rid of collections of books, records and movies, replacing them with Kindle and Spotify and Netflix services.
Recently, consumers have discovered that they don’t really own those titles, and many favorites could disappear with no notice. Consequently, buyers are shifting to a new desire to have physical items that they can hold and own and enjoy at their leisure.
“Streaming services took over with this implicit promise that all content would be available to us whenever, forever. But that’s so far from the truth,” Tim Friedman, owner of Culture Clash Records, said. “Even if you can find the movie you want to watch or the album you want to listen to on one of the services you subscribe to, the experience is fleeting and the artists involved are getting massively underpaid.”
“Buying a record is one of the most cost-effective ways to support an artist you love, and in return you get to have and hold this low-key magical piece of art, the physical appearance of the album art and the record itself along with the music that is unleashed through a tiny needle and a set of speakers,” Friedman said.
“Generationally, we gave up so much as we shifted to digital and streaming practices. Not only are the people who sold off their record collections coming back, but younger generations are appreciating being able to own a tangible piece of art that speaks to them.”
Friedman helps customers who are interested in embracing analog, whether it is helping them find the perfect turntable and vinyl records, or assisting them with their home movie library of Blu Ray and DVDs.
“One thing that Culture Clash has been doing more of lately is hosting listening parties for new albums. We announce them frequently on our website and through our socials. And they represent an opportunity to hear new music for the first time with like-minded fans and new friends.”
Arts and Crafts
In an effort to reduce stress and screen time, many people are turning to hobbies that allow them to decompress.
“Arts and crafts are an amazing way to take a much needed digital detox from our screens, get our hands moving and give our brains a creative boost,” Avery Bohman, Community Engagement Coordinator at the 577 Foundation, said. “They allow us to slow down and enjoy the present moment, practice mindfulness, and build skills. It’s fun to allow ourselves to play with paints, fibers, clay and other materials, encouraging us to get curious about new and exciting art and craft forms.”
The 577 Foundation in Perrysburg offers many classes for participants to explore, from traditional crafts like pottery, watercolor and weaving to new classes such as amigurumi, junk journaling and hand lettering. Outdoor enthusiasts can try foraging or gardening, and homebodies can hone their culinary skills.
“There’s something very meaningful about the return to arts and crafts and making things with your hands,” Bohman said. “ We see it every day in our classes, but it also shows up just as strongly in the Welcome Center and Curiosity Shop, which is full of repurposed materials, art supplies, books and handmade goods, all given a second life through creativity. It’s a place where someone might discover a new hobby, pick up materials to start a project, or feel inspired to make something simply for the joy of it.”
“In many ways, it reflects what we’re seeing more and more of- people slowing down, creating with their hands, and finding connection through the act of creating.”
