An Oregon Public Library Gets Ready to Lend eBook Readers
It's always interesting to learn how different public libraries (of all sizes) promote (or plan to promote0 and utilize technology, in this case, eBook readers. We wouldn't doubt that we'll see and read a massive amount of these types of stories in 2010.
Starting in January, the library will begin checking out three e-book Sony Readers that will let a library user lug hundreds of books in an apparatus that weighs less than a pound.
[Snip]
“Our mission is to promote books and reading in general in whatever format that might be in,” he [Assistant Library Director Buzzy Nielsen] said. “Now that e-books are becoming more prominent, we are hoping to promote them as well.”
They’ll [Patrons] be provided with a tutorial and a list of Web sites where they can download e-books. The downloaded content will remain on the readers for the next patrons who check them out.
[Snip]
“Some people cringe at the thought of reading a book on anything but printed paper,” he said. “Some people will be really excited by the prospect of new technology.”
Either way, he doesn’t think e-books will become a permanent substitute for the printed word. Many people like the feel of a book in their hands.
“It will become part of the market, but it’s not going to take it over,” he said.
Plus, traditional books are less expensive to replace.
“If you drop a book in a tub, you’re out $7. If you drop an e-book in the tub, you’re out $300.”
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