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Why not the Public Library? My parents are in their late 70s, they both use a Kindle Paperwhite, and they figured out on their own that US Public Libraries all

by alberth 12y ago

Why not the Public Library? My parents are in their late 70s, they both use a Kindle Paperwhite, and they figured out on their own that US Public Libraries allow you to digitally check out books to your Kindle for FREE. I had no idea of this, yet my 70+ year old parent figured it out ... and you don't even need to go into the physical library, it's all down over the web or via an app. Which is why I suspect most companies have not tried this "Netflix for books" business because it already exist for FREE and it's called the US Public Library.

mark_l_watson 12y ago
I tried my local library for eBooks, but it was enough of a hassle that I went back to buying Kindle books. My wife uses the library for audio books on CDs, consuming several a month. I spend a little money at Audible and have a more convenient experience. That said, I really like my local library not only as a source of physical books, but also because of talks and other events.
- stinkytaco 12y ago
  If your library is an Overdrive subscriber I would encourage you to try again, they have improved their service immensely. eBooks on Kindle or tablet devices are now very easy and even include syncing between devices. Audiobooks have switched entirely to the MP3 format for near universal compatibility. The only annoying holdout is if you have an e-ink epub device like a nook or a kobo. You obviously continue to deal with limited availability, but the service has come a long way. Quick disclaimer: I am a librarian.
drzaiusapelord 12y ago
These systems are a pain to use sometimes (everyone seems to be using the same software monopoly) and there are limited copies available at one time due to licensing. Personally, I can afford these things, so I feel bad taking resources from those who can't. I font mind paying for this kind of service and leaving the library to those who can't, the same way I don't go to the library to use the internet. I have a 50mbps connection at home.

by alberth 12y ago

mark_l_watson 12y ago

I tried my local library for eBooks, but it was enough of a hassle that I went back to buying Kindle books. My wife uses the library for audio books on CDs, consuming several a month. I spend a little money at Audible and have a more convenient experience. That said, I really like my local library not only as a source of physical books, but also because of talks and other events.

stinkytaco 12y ago
If your library is an Overdrive subscriber I would encourage you to try again, they have improved their service immensely. eBooks on Kindle or tablet devices are now very easy and even include syncing between devices. Audiobooks have switched entirely to the MP3 format for near universal compatibility. The only annoying holdout is if you have an e-ink epub device like a nook or a kobo. You obviously continue to deal with limited availability, but the service has come a long way. Quick disclaimer: I am a librarian.

drzaiusapelord 12y ago

These systems are a pain to use sometimes (everyone seems to be using the same software monopoly) and there are limited copies available at one time due to licensing. Personally, I can afford these things, so I feel bad taking resources from those who can't. I font mind paying for this kind of service and leaving the library to those who can't, the same way I don't go to the library to use the internet. I have a 50mbps connection at home.