Always an insightful commentator on industry trends, book agent Chip MacGregor offers some more food for thought with his vision of the future.

Looking ahead five years, he speculates on the implications of the still-unfolding digital revolution.

Among his predictions, that the Web will replace trade shows and book catalogs. " The big book shows are dying--too expensive and not enough return to keep going," he says. "They'll be replaced with smarter, more cost-effective company events or Web-based specialty events. And publishers will soon buy into the green movement by doing away with printed book catalogs and going to web-based catalogs that are always accessible and easy to correct and update."

MacGregor also foresees a new role in publishing houses. "Creative content editors" will be needed to handle the "convergence of words and images" that he expects to come to the world of books--interactive features, downloadable extras, video clips and author interviews.

MacGregor's list also includes a wish-that the culture's fascination with short messages on Facebook and Twitter will mean a renewed interest in short stories. "Okay, this may not happen... but I can dream," he says. "Short stories are my favorite form of literature, and they are almost impossible to sell in book form these days. But perhaps the next generations' interest in all things short will mean a renewed interest in short stories. "

Find his 10-point vision of the future in the June 21 posting at http://chipmacgregor.typepad.com, and let us know what you think...

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