Week #9 Thing #22

eBooks : the e should stand for easy. And that is not the case for many potential users. I think the concept of electronic books audio ebooks is marvelous, and I am pleased that they are accessible on library catalogs and on Internet sites like the Gutenberg Project. But the complexities of downloading these digital wonders make them accessible only to those users who have the knowledge , skills and computer mindset to do so. I have tried on several occasions to download books from SJPL digital library and have encountered lots of frustration. I often wondered if some kind of video podcast could be developed, so customers could follow instructions online as they attempt to download an ebook or audio ebook. I think reading books online is a last resort for most library customers. A customer needs a book by tomorrow. The library has no print copies available, but there is access to an electronic book. The customer is desperate, and will go for the ebook option ( if they have access to the Internet at home...). I don't envision the digital book ever replacing the material book. Audio ebooks appear to have a larger following. With the wide use of MP3 players, audio books fit the needs and lifestyles of library customers . The long car commute becomes more bearable if you can download an audio book and listen to it as you drive. For those customers who are vision impaired an audio book is a necessity. And for those joggers and walkers who need something to listen to while they work out, audio books are sometimes the answer. If only the downloading part was more user friendly.....