The British Library, the national library of the UK, is giving readers the chance to test drive three e-readers from Sony and iRex Technologies currently available in the UK. The e-reader display will give visitors the chance to familiarise themselves with these new devices and to freely explore the possible recreational and research benefits of the e-book revolution. Devices on display include Sony Reader, iRex DR1000 and the iLiad.
E-readers have seen an explosion of interest in recent months, with leading publishing experts suggesting that the industry has finally hit its 'iPod moment'. The British Library seeks to ensure that readers are equipped with the digital literacy skills to be able to use such technology and thrive in the 21st century research environment.
Traditionally, e-readers have struggled to compete with the traditional book due to issues with low battery life and the use of harsh back-lit screens. Overcoming these obstacles through the use of e-ink technology, e-reading devices are more capable of satisfying reader expectations and can deliver a variety of additional functions such as the ability to vary font size, access WiFi and make annotations.
The e-readers on display have been pre-loaded with material currently available on the market. However, in the future, the British Library hopes to exploit e-reader technology to facilitate access to its own digital collections, allowing readers to explore rare and often out of print items. These include the 80,000 editions of 19th century English literature recently digitised in partnership with Microsoft.
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