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Penguin eBooks Penguin titles available to read on eReader or compatible digital devices.
These developments on the provider side imply that the advent of e-books has allowed patrons to
access contents from an electronic mini-library in the comforts of their homes. They have to embrace
these developments, and develop the virtual library environment.
E- MATERIALS: POSITIVE VIEW
E-Materials advantage to users, publishers, authors, and advertisers are tremendous and operate
well in a virtual library environment.
To Users
Users find it valuable in terms of space usage The eBook reader has the ability to hold large
number of eMaterials in a small device.
Low cost and longer battery life the eBook reader does not require fast processors or powerful
operating systems. With very little power consumption (resulting in a longer battery life), eReader
users can enjoy low overall operating costs.
Right there with you where you are and save you a trip Since users can access E-Materials
without going to the library. E-Materials can be transmitted anywhere users desire to download – be
it another location, or to their e-devices.
To Authors, Publishers, and Advertisers
The eBook model does not require the presence of retailers and wholesalers, unlike traditional print
books. As a result, more profits are shared by the authors and publishers. It also provides a good
medium for advertisers – they can now embed advertisements, further reducing the final sales price
to customers. (Stanford University School of Engineering, 2009).
To Employees
Whether they are reporters, programmers, developers, etc., they will benefit from the adoption of
portable computing devices. Many employees, who work from home or who travel for work, will also
benefit.
E-MATERIAL- NEGATIVE ASPECTS
Although, there has been increased usage of E-Materials and is a popular trend to use these days,
these devices have some negative attributes. Some of these are listed below:
Transfer of ownership
eBooks cannot be transferred to another individual (as with physical materials). eBooks read on
electronic devices has to be channeled through Digital Rights Management (DRM) techniques to
limit copying, printing and sharing of eBooks.
Device crash
DRMs can enable devices to loss of date if they crash.
eReader Equipment
eBook reader devices are expensive ($300 - $600); Seniors/disabled users may find it stressful on
the eyes, and may become frustrated with the devices.
Acceptance to cope up with the change in accessing E-Materials
Users have to be willing to accept/learn new trends. In addition, many users may lack competency
towards new technologies.
E-MATERIAL SERVICES AT SAN ANTONIO PUBLIC LIBRARY (SAPL)
Tenth Annual International Daejeon, South Korea P a g e | 45
Smart Sourcing Conference June 28-29, 2012