I jumped on the bandwagon this past Christmas and bought a Kobo for my father. He had been asking me for large type classics for years and because the Kobo came loaded with 100 classic titles and, like all readers allows for font adjustment, it was perfect for him. After he played with his new toy for a few days, I took it back from him and tried downloading my first e-book. I wouldn't say it was smooth sailing. Thinking back on it, I remember being frustrated by all the steps required -- get an Adobe id, download Digital Editions, find an available book. I ended up installing a parenting book on his Kobo because it was one of the few available. (Rather comical since my father is 88.)
However, like most things in life, after you've done something once, it's easier the second time.
Since Christmas, the librarians at CPH have brought in our various devices and tried them out. So, while I'm not proficient by any means, I've also downloaded eBooks to a Nook and an iPad.
Our patrons love handouts. I guess it's that sense that "everything I need to know is right here in black and white." Natalie did a great job creating some getting started with eBooks handouts that are on our website. I really like the GCPL video on how to download an eBook, and I'm wondering if we can take our handouts one step further and create a video ourselves.
Whether we love 'em or hate 'em, I view eBooks as just one more new technology we need
to learn. As with all new things sometimes they're hard to figure out and even harder to explain to someone. But, I think it's our job to learn how to use them and then teach others. We are in the information business after all. That's my justification for why I want a SmartPhone. I don't know how to download an app and I should. I'm past my birthday for this year, and Mother's Day, so I can't put one on my wish list. But, happily our cell plan is up for renewal next month and I can't wait to download Angry Birds all for myself!
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