Which E-Reader is Right for Me? A Guide to E-Books and E-Reader Devices.

Proposal No: 1923

Bios & Handouts

Speaker(s)

• Allison Swanson, AT-IT Coordinator, Colorado State University

Disability Area: Cognitive|Learning   Mobility   Vision   Deaf|HOH   Other Disability  

Topic Area: Legal   Best Practices   Web|Media Access   Alternate Format   Campus Policy   Curriculum Access   Assistive Technology   Information Resources  

Summary of Session

Compares types of e-books, e-textbooks, and e-reader devices, including Kindle, Nook, Kobo, and Reading Apps, addressing questions of intended use and accessibility. Arms you with the information needed to make an informed choice on e-books and the best way to read them.

Abstract

This session introduces the various types of e-books and e-reader devices currently available, along with questions to consider before purchasing a book or a device. It focuses on choosing the best device depending on its intended use, the type of books you need to read, and accessibility needs. Suitable for both technology users and service providers. Dealing specifically with e-textbooks for higher education, the session provides a comparison of textbook publishers’ accessibility and the accessibility of various e-textbook apps. The session also considers mainstream fiction and nonfiction e-books. It provides comparisons of e-reader and tablet devices including Kindle, Nook, and Kobo, and considers the accessibility of various Reading Apps for PC, Mac, and Mobile Devices. It highlights the questions you should ask before committing to a specific type of device, and compares the accessibility features of devices.

Kepoints

1. 1. Learn the major differences between e-textbooks and mainstream e-books, and between e-readers and tablets.
2. 2. Learn how to choose the most appropriate types of e-books and devices based on needs.
3. 3. Compare the accessibility features of e-textbook publishers, e-readers, tablets, and e-reader apps.

Speaker Bio(s)

Allison Swanson

Allison is the Assistive Technology IT Coordinator for the Assistive Technology Resource Center at Colorado State University. She supports assistive technology for students and employees across campus. She also works to enhance awareness of electronic accessibility and to foster a proactive, inclusive approach to the problems caused by inaccessible electronic materials and systems.

Handout(s)