Quote:
Originally Posted by TallMomof2
You can look at the extra cost as a way to have instantaneous access to the book.
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I could understand adding on a price for this service, but buying the whole book a second time just to get it immediately? That's a steep price to pay. I would maybe pay a dollar or two for this service.
Quote:
Originally Posted by AnemicOak
You'll probably always be able to buy a used or remainder copy for less than an ebook, which is going to have its price based on the current new paper version from the publisher in most cases.
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But is this right? Is a used p-book really worth less than an ebook? I don't think so. I'd almost always prefer to buy a used p-book provided it's not in terrible condition.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Penforhire
Public libraries probably do need to play a role in e-book commerce, no?
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As a libertarian, I don't agree with most public services, haha. As long as our tax dollars are paying for it, though, I definitely think that libraries should have a more extensive role in this area. DaleDe is right when he says some libraries offer this service already, but I haven't seen any with an extensive selection of ebooks. The only one I've actually had access to (a navy OverDrive account) has a paltry selection of ebooks at best (though it has quite a good selection of audio books). Plus, libraries only allow so many copies of a book to be active at any time, as you mentioned. A subscription service would probably have to let people get any book offered at any time if it were to stay competitive.