eReaders & eBooks

With the release of eReaders there is an ongoing discussion about

eBooks and the impact on public libraries.

eReader Comparisons

There are so many eReaders on the market and new ones coming out every day.  It can be a bit stressful keeping track.

 

For eReader comparisons take a look at:

• What eReader is best for you and/or your patrons? Try this interactive questionnaire that indicates which eReader you might like best, based on your answers. Most of the questions are lowball and non-technical.
• Comparison of Library eBook Choices by the Colorado Library Consortium
• Handy eReader Informational Chart breaking down names, prices, specs, and file compatibility.
• eBook reader review -- http://ebook-reader-review.toptenreviews.com/
• Wikipedia -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_e-book_readers

Loaning eReaders: Policies & Agreements

 For libraries, making decisions about whether to jump into loaning eReaders and/or eBooks requires some investigation.

• Links to ereader sample policies
• See school eReader policies and agreements, handbook statements, parental waivers - also good to modify for libraries in general

eReaders, Overdrive and ePub

Companies like Overdrive are now offering downloads of e-books in the ePub format so patrons can borrow eBooks.

•  Compatible devices for Overdrive eBooks. or use a PDF cheatsheet from Overdrive.
• Common Problems and Questions related to Maine InfoNet Download Library (OverDrive) [PDF, 212 KB] This file requires the free Adobe Reader.

eReaders and Accessibility

Good webinar offered by EASI (Equal Access to Software & Information) to help understand issues on e-reader accessibilit. The webinar is by Ken Petri from Ohio State University. Petri explains what is needed to provide eReader access to people with disabilities and encourages people to contact manufacturers of e-readers and ask for accessibility enhancements

• Webinar: Overview of the Accessibility of Mainstream E-Readers
  
• Slides on the Accessibility of Mainstream E-readers

Additional Resources

• Washington State Library's a list of e-reader and e-book resources (01-12-12)
• The Rise of E-Reading - April 2012, Pew Research Publication
• Libraries, patrons, and e-books, June 2012, Pew Research Publication
• Kindles, Nook (and more) Educators: Here’s a resource to help educators who are using e-readers connect with each other and share ideas and resources. It has lots of librarian participation and you can join a separate group called “Library.”