What is an eReader?
An eReader is a small portable device that:
• have a screen and buttons
• are the size of a paperback novel
• weigh almost half that of an average paperback novel
• replicate the experience of reading a regular book
• display electronic versions of books called ‘eBooks’
What is an eReader?
An electronic reader (eReader) is a portable electronic device developed to display electronic books.
• An eReader will typically allow you to turn the pages of the book by either touching or swiping on those eReaders
with a touch screen, or pressing a button. You can turn pages backwards or forwards through the book just like a
traditional book.
• They typically also allow you to create an electronic bookmark to easily keep track of where you are up to in a
book.
• More common eReaders also have extra features, such as searching through books for words or phrases (great for
textbooks or travel guides), and the ability to select a word and get the dictionary definition.
• They can hold many books at a time, often thousands, so you can carry around your entire library with you on just
one small device!
• If your eReader breaks or is lost, you can simply re-download your books once more.
• Often you require access to a computer to set up and configure you eReader.
What is an eBook?
An electronic book (known as an eBook) is a book or publication that is an electronic version of the paper copy. These
can be novels, magazines, text books, etc. eBooks can be read on many different devices including computers, tablet
devices (such as the iPad®) and eReaders. Some eBooks are free, some can be borrowed and others you have to
purchase. Where you can get eBooks include:
• An eBook store may come installed and accessible on your eReader over WiFi.
• South Australian Public Library Network http://sapln.lib.overdrive.com eBook borrowing service (library
membership required).
Things to consider when buying an eReader:
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Warranty - what type of warranty does it come with, if any?
Weight - often it will be carried around and held for extended periods of time.
Access to WiFi - if you have WiFi at home you may want this feature.
Back lit screen - very useful if you like to read in low levels of light.
Will you want to listen to audiobooks? If so, there will need to be somewhere to plug your headphones into the
device.
Support - what level of help comes with the device, if any?
Compatibility with the Salisbury Library’s eBook borrowing service if you wish to use it (some eReaders, most
notably the Amazon Kindle™, are not compatible with Overdrive®, the South Australian Public Library Network
eBook borrowing service).
Where to get more help
The Salisbury Digital Hub (located in the Len Beadell Library in Salisbury) offers free training on various computer
devices and the Internet. Group and one-on-one training sessions for all skill levels are available. Call now 8406 8332
for more information (bookings are essential) or visit www.salisbury.sa.gov.au/digitalhub
Salisbury Digital Kiosk
www.salisbury.sa.gov.au/digitalkiosk