This textbook is written for all those wishing to understand the concepts behind modern optical recording. It also paves the way towards the future science and technology beyond the optical diffraction limit. Based on the latest experimental results of experiments and computer simulations (FTDT), it features many informative illustrations and figures. The important keyword here is "near-field optics," a regime whose promising characteristics are opening the door to a new information optics. This unique book will be useful for all graduate students, scientists and engineers seeking to advance our understanding of optical near-field recording.