| ABOUT DIGITAL PUBLISHING
What is a digital book?
A digital book (aka ebook/e-book, electronic
book) is an electronic version of a full-length publication consisting
of text, images, or both, which can be downloaded to a handheld
reading device, personal computer, tablet, or even a phone.
The
Merriem-Webster Dictionary defines the ebook as "a book composed
in or converted to digital format for display on a computer screen
or handheld device," but ebooks can and do exist without any printed
equivalent.
What is digital publishing?
The
Merriem-Webster Dictionary defines digital publishing as "publishing
in which information is distributed by means of a computer network
or is produced in a format for use with a computer." Simply
put, publishing to an electronic format rather than to print on
paper.
What is the advantage of digital books?
There are many advantages to publishing
and buying digital books. Here are just a few --
• Almost unlimited storage -- some
devices claim to store up to 3000 titles
• Download books wherever
there's an internet connection available (may require
network registration)
• Text-to-speech software lets the device read to
you -- set male or female voice and 'read speed'
• Ability to change font size eliminates the need
to search out traditional large print books
• Text search, annotation, highlighting, bookmarking
within each book
• E-Ink technology offer readers a near-traditional
print reading experience
• Digital books are generally less expensive than
their print partners*
• Devices run on little
power, allowing near-continuous use for weeks at a time
before recharging is required
•• For those with allergies, it means no more physical books collecting dust, which attract paper eating house pests which can trigger alleries. |
And let's
face it, digital books are Green/Eco Friendly -- No
ink or trees go into the production of digital books |
Are there disadvantages to digital
books?
Sure. Nothing is perfect. Here are a few
to consider --
• Let's start with the '*'
above at [digital books are less expensive than their
print partners*]: Digital books released (through Big Five publishers) at the same time
as print titles are generally priced similarly until
the book has been around a while,
especially in the case with branded authors like Dean
Koontz and Nora Roberts
• Technology advances . . . top of the line today
can be replaced by the 'new and improved' model tomorrow
• Proprietary formats: While all devices support
epub and pdf formats, some also operate on their own format,
such as mobi with Kindle
• Devices are susceptible to damage, aren't waterproof,
and can't take extremes in temperature. If your books
aren't backed up, those titles could become lost if your
device fails (unless your point of purchase has a cloud system where all of your downloads are stored on their library online, which is automatic with Kindle)
• There's nothing like a trip to the bookstore, wandering
the aisles for hours, flipping through volumes before
buying what you want
•• As with mobile/cellular
phones and other trendy electronic devices, theft of digital
readers is on the rise
•• What to do with old
or obsolete devices when you trade up?
note: recycling centers are beginning to take these devices,
as they have long accepted computer componants and other
electronic goods
•• And
probably a very important disadvantage, the FAA -- the USA's Federal
Aviation Administration -- restricts the use of all electronic device on commercial airliners during takeoff and
landing. This has been the standard for years with the likes of CD
players and computers, but tablets, phones, and ereaders have been included in this restriction. |
How are digital books purchased?
Each digital bookseller has their own policy,
but generally, digital books can be purchased by using a standard
credit card, through PayPal, or though proprietary gift cards
and vouchers which are applied to the reader's account prior to
purchasing books.
Where can I learn more about Tirgearr Publishing
digital books? Check out our F.A.Q.
page.
If you have a question about digital books
that hasn't been answered here, please send us an email. |
