Ebook readers

the story so far…

The session is about…

• Passing on information about ebook

readers

• Show and tell from staff who have bought

ebook readers

• Q & A ask questions

Why do we need to know?

• New technology

• Library will need to

respond

• You may want to buy

one

http://www.flickr.com/photos/eiriknewth/3957443019/

From Flickr Eirik Newth's photo stream

What is an ebook reader?

• Portable, lightweight device

• Low power

• High resolution

• Some devices have other functions

– iPad (Apple)

• Some specifically designed for

ebooks

– Kindle, Kobo, Sony ereader

How does it work?

• Displays E-versions of text

– using e-ink, simulates paper

• Screen resolution easy on the eyes

• LCD,

– Backlit, less battery life, but…

• LCD readers such as iPad

– can run video

– colour

Ebook reader terminology

• E-ink

• LCD (liquid crystal display)

• DRM (digital rights management)

• EPUB (electronic publication)

– common format

• WiFi (wireless network)

• 3G (third generation mobile phone

network)

What are the issues/downsides?

• Damage or theft

• Content compatibility

across platforms

• Costs for libraries

• Many devices

• Many ebook

files/suppliers

• Linked to bookstores

• ebook terms of use,

copyright, DRM

http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidking/2092005734/ From Flickr davidking’s photostream

What are the implications for library?

• New ways to acquire

content

• More flexibility

• Customisable course

materials

• Library brand=books

(no longer)

• By-pass library

• New roles for us

• DRM

www.flickr.com/photos/cwiebrands/4650884987/ Flickr cwiebrands photostream

Devices in Australia

• Borders’ Kobo

• Amazon Kindle2 KindleDX

• iRiver Story (Harvey Norman)

• Stash W950 (Office Works $129)

• Sony PRS-700 ebook reader

• Smartphone, iPhone, iPad, Blackberry

– all have ebook apps

Q & A session with staff

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xissey/4309421719/

From Flickr d!zzy's photostream