e-books from the library
Posted by: Rockingdoc on 10 May 2010
I have used a Sony reader for the past couple of years, mainly because it is easier to carry when I cycle than books. However, I do object to paying the full paper book price, which all the publishers charge, when they are saving; printing, paper, distribution and sales staff costs.
But, my local library is now stocking e-books, with normal free lending. Downloaded my first loan book today, and the system worked perfectly. Hooray!!
Posted on: 10 May 2010 by Sniper
Hmn very interesting. Can one (providing one is a member of course)download a book when abroad (say)on holiday?
Posted on: 10 May 2010 by Rockingdoc
It would appear so. All I needed was my normal library card to log on through the library website. The dowloaded book seems to have a life of seven days, after which I imagine it self-destructs in Mission Impossible fashion. Lewisham, Bromley and Bexley libraries seem to be operating this together here, so I presume other areas are doing the same.
Posted on: 10 May 2010 by Sniper
Thanks doc. Good news.
Posted on: 10 May 2010 by Steve Bull
What a fantastic idea. I'm not sold on the idea of ereaders in general, but I love the idea of renting a few titles for holidays. Now, will I be able to do this with the iPad I've just ordered...
Posted on: 10 May 2010 by Dungassin
quote:
will I be able to do this with the iPad I've just ordered...
quote:
What a fantastic idea. I'm not sold on the idea of ereaders in general, but I love the idea of renting a few titles for holidays. Now, will I be able to do this with the iPad I've just ordered...
Don't see why not. I use a free application called "Stanza" downloaded from the iTunes app shop to read ebooks on my iPhone (very useful on holiday - saves me taking too many paperbacks). I would think this or a similar application would be available for the iPad.
Posted on: 21 May 2010 by Rockingdoc
Even better news. Not only is it free to borrow these e-books, but after the loan period they only delete from your computer. The copy in my Sony Reader stays there until/unless I "sync" it with the PC. So, if I have saved the books to the Reader's removable memory (SD cards), I get to keep the books for ever!
Don't tell the library or publishers, although I'm sure they'll work it out in time.
Posted on: 21 May 2010 by Blueknowz
I have always fancied buying an e-reader,but i have heard to repair one costs ridiculous money,anyone care to enlighten me?
Posted on: 21 May 2010 by Dungassin
quote:
mainly because it is easier to carry when I cycle than books
I hope you're not using it WHILE you're cycling.
quote:
I have always fancied buying an e-reader,but i have heard to repair one costs ridiculous money,anyone care to enlighten me?
Several years ago I dropped my HP PDA and broke the screen. The cost of repair was pretty much the same as buying a new one. I suspect the same applies to eBook Readers. Needless to say I am VERY careful not to drop my PAYG iPhone, as I suspect the same would apply.
Posted on: 21 May 2010 by Rockingdoc
I use mine to read in the bath! I must say that I had considered them to be like all modern electronics, i.e. fit only for the bin if not working.
Mine has lasted since the day they were released in the UK, and I've treated it with no care whatsoever, being bounced around on the back of my bike. I'd like a larger screen now anyway,but it just won't break.
