More Content for Kindle

Robert Ambrogi at law.com just posted on West’s decision to make 29 law books available on the Kindle. As earlier SLAW posts have noted, we Canadians continue to miss out on new technology.

Do I really need a Kindle to keep my Ipod Touch and Blackberry Storm company? Do these gadgets really improve efficiency? Will I find time to read books on a screen when I can’t find the time to read the paper versions? Insights from those who have figured this out are welcomed!

Comments

  1. Ideally we should have one device for everything. Hopefully some day!

    The biggest advantage to an ereader that I can see is that it is lighter than carrying a lot of books with you. So, for example, if you are travelling for an extended period or doing research while in transit, you could carry a number of resources with you, whether it be casual reading or reference texts. The kindle also offers newspapers.

    Some are reading books on the iPod Touch/iPhone, but for me the screen is too small for extended reading. The ereaders such as the Kindle have screens that are supposedly easier on the eyes than Touches or computer screens.

    Ereaders also offer the ability to make notes onto the text, which sounds convenient if you don’t want to carry a laptop while doing a literature review.

    That being said, I haven’t jumped in yet to try it. Hopefully someday soon so I can report back.

  2. We’re starting an experiment this week at the Legislative Library. We’re looking at different technological platforms and different types of e-books (fiction, reference, academic texts). I’m hoping that this experiment will help us understand which combinations of content and technology make the most sense.

    I agree, Elizabeth – too many devices! I hear that Asus is going to be selling a combined netbook/reader soon. I may hold out for that for myself.