Thinking of buying a Nook or Kindle for someone on your holiday shopping list? With many new devices on the market, dropping prices and increasing availability of downloadable books, eReaders are expected to be a popular gift this season.
Take some of the confusion out of your shopping experience by learning about available models.
What kind of eReader should I buy?
What do you plan on using your eReader for? If you want to just read books, choose a simpler device such as the Kindle ($79), Kindle Touch ($99) or Kindle Keyboard ($139), the Nook Simple Touch ($99), the Kobo eReader Touch ($99) or the Sony Reader ($129).
If you plan on reading magazines and newspapers, browsing the Web, prefer multimedia (music, audiobooks, video), and can't live without the Internet, a tablet is for you. Choose from multi-function devices such as the Kindle Fire ($199), the Color Nook ($199), or the iPad ($499).
Above costs are starting prices that can vary with options such as ads, connectivity (Wi-Fi vs. 3G) and other accessories such as power adapters, covers and warranties.
Consumer Reports offers other helpful shopping tips:
Consider screen size
Screens range from about 5 to 10 inches. A 6-inch screen offers a good combination of adequate size and moderate price for most people.
Consider connectivity vs. cost
A model with wireless 3G access offers the most flexibility for obtaining new content anytime, but models with Wi-Fi-only access generally cost less.
Consider display and performance differences
eReaders vary in the clarity of type on their screens, and in the contrast between the type and the screen background-both important to readability. Some models take noticeably longer to complete page turns than others. Try out various devices to find what model is most comfortable for you physically and is visually clear.
Consider versatility and flexibility
Books ordered from the eReader's dedicated e-book store will come formatted for the device. Some readers, including the Barnes & Noble Nook, can also accept books from other e-book stores natively--that is, without the need to convert to their format. Some models, including the Nook and Sony, accept formats with digital rights management capabilites, which allows you to borrow e-books from some public libraries. Keep reading for information on the library's download service and compatible devices.
Other useful buyer's guides:
Can I download library books to an e-reader?
Yes. The library provides download service through our OverDrive connection which includes thousands of ebooks that can be checked out and transferred to eReader devices.
What kind of titles are in the library's collection?
Our collection of downloadable ebooks includes a wide variety of bestselling titles from well-known authors. Visit the OverDrive website to get started.
What kind of e-readers are compatible with the library's OverDrive collection?
OverDrive titles can be enjoyed on a wide variety of devices including the popular Amazon Kindle and Kindle Fire, the Barnes & Noble Nook, Sony Reader, and Kobo. A complete list of compatible ebook readers is available at OverDrive.
Can I download books to the iPad?
The OverDrive Media Console app, which is optimized for iPads, is available in the App Store, and can be installed on Apple devices running iOS v4.0, or newer.
I've never downloaded an ebook from the library before. How do I get started?
Spend some time reviewing the OverDrive Quick Start Guide. You'll find step-by-step guides for downloading and installing required software, searching our catalog, item check out, downloading and enjoying your ebook.
What happens if I have technical questions or problems?
OverDrive has a Digital Help webpage that covers many of the frequently asked questions about digital materials. You can also bring your device to the library and our staff will be happy to assist you.
Upgrading to a new eReader this year? Consider donating your used eReader to the library for a 2011 tax deduction!
Help local teens in need. Bring toiletries such as shampoo, 
Remember to bring your own reusable bag to the library. To save money and to reduce the use of plastic, 