Friendly Solutions For Digital Readers

 
With the continual developments in technology, the education industry is constantly expanding to meet new demands. One of the biggest innovations to hit the industry is the introduction of the digital textbook. Earlier this month Apple announced a new platform, iBooks2, to assist customers on locating and purchasing digital text resources. On this platform, customers can access a database of digital textbooks available for your iPhone and iPad.
 
While Apple is trying to capitalize on this movement to gain market share, there are several other services available to users looking to dish the traditional 10 lb. textbook and ease the pressure on their wallet. Here is a list of five services that offer digital reading material at consumer friendly prices.
 
1. Project Gutenberg
With a digital library offering more than 38,000 free eBooks, Project Gutenberg has a variety of digital texts available for free. The site allows volunteers to submit digitized text for users to download. Project Gutenberg offers cultural works and literary classics in plain text, HTML and PDF formats. Users are able to search for books by category, most popular or by simply typing in the title. There is no fee or registration required to view and download materials. Visit www.gutenberg.org
 
2. eCampus
eCampus is perfect solution for students looking to go digital. The site offers more than 100,000 digital titles, as well as hardcover texts for purchase or rent. With each eBook, the service allows users to highlight text and take notes. An eBook subscription lasts up to a year and is typically cheaper than the traditional counterpart. Visit www.ecampus.com
 
3. Google Books
With an easy to navigate and nicely organized platform, Google Books offers more than 2 million titles accessible from any device. Google Books allows users to sync their books from computer to phone to tablet. Users are able to pick up reading where they left off in an effort to simplify the reading experience. Visit books.google.com/books
 
4. Kno
Kno offers over 150,000 digital textbook titles priced 30-50% off market price. Along with eBooks, Kno has a variety of resources for students to increase their time and efficiency when studying including capabilities like 3D diagrams and a "Quiz Me" button that tests readers on portions in the textbook. By utilizing the search mechanism, readers will be able to find certain words and sections with a simple click. Kno can be used on the web or through an app for the iPhone and iPad.
Visit www.kno.com
 
5. Zinio
Zinio is the perfect solution for readers looking for a modern approach to the traditional magazine. The site offers digitized magazines, which are offered interchangeably on iPad, iPhone, Android and computer devices. Zinio makes it easy to access thousands of titles in its database. Users have the option of subscribing for a year or purchasing a single month's copy for any periodical. Visit www.zinio.com
 
With the wide variety of options to choose from, going digital can be a click away. Locals, give these sites a look and tell us what you think!