Comments on: Never mind legal issues of the Kindle for most libraries: How about the financial ones?

By: David Rothman

David Rothman — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:43:45 +0000

Rochelle, you’re absolutely right about the (lack of) demand for the classics. But hey, promo is worth trying if expectations are kept low enough. That said, I know where you’re coming from. E-files of best-sellers, readable on many machines, could save libraries a ton of money and result in better patron service. Big thanks! David (who reads his share of low-brow)

By: rochelle

rochelle — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:57:03 +0000

I know that you are a big fan of the classics, David, but having worked in a public library for 12 years, I can say with confidence that even heavy promotion is not going to make the classics a big part of our business. People want current, hot stuff. For instance, I had to wait 3 months to get Nikki Sixx’s Heroin Diaries. There are a lot of us low-brow gizmo-lovers out there.

By: David Rothman

David Rothman — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 05:10:22 +0000

Mary: Excellent content idea if the classics are well promoted. Of course, I’d argue for a less expensive platform such as the XO or even the Sony Reader. Thanks. David

By: Mary M

Mary M — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 02:31:35 +0000

Fill them up with classics from the public domain plus creative commons licensed works.

Still, too flimsy for public library use. I’d recommend the xo, if the library can figure out how to load it up with the same titles.

By: Mike Cane

Mike Cane — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 18:58:40 +0000

Hmph. A *small local branch* of the NYPL has *two laptops*. No, they can’t be taken out. But they supplement the three *wired PCs* used for Net access. The can’t fit in more PCs, so they went that route.

Lend out Kindles or Sony Readers? I’m with David: Let’s get the damned things down to $50. Most everyone will buy their own.