I think you are probably right. The books themselves were more symbolic of the value parents put on learning and it is that value that makes all the difference.

Almost 30 years ago I taught a literacy course in Indianapolis. I found the mission of the organization sponsoring this course very interesting. Teaching people to "read" was only a secondary goal. The primary goal was to encourage people to read by showing them how they could use reading to learn skills and be better informed.

You are right, times have changed. So for example, in 2005, I learned how to wire outlets in my home, install ceiling lights and ceiling fans by reading a book on electrical home wiring. About 7 years later, I learned how to rebuild a lawn mower carburetor watching a video on YouTube over and over again (lucky it was digital). Deep down though... I miss books...