Thing 20

I have to admit that I am a bit torn about ebooks. Textbook distributors are now using them so students don't have to take books home to read. They can access their textbook on line. This is a great purpose for students who never bring their books anywhere. They also have additional programs and study guides for students to use that aren't in the textbook.

Then I happened to find one of Antoine Lavoisier's original texts that was made into an ebook. I got to read in his own writing about his discoveries and how he came to realize the law of conservation of mass. Granted, it was a difficult read but I have to admit that it inspired me. To imagine that a man who had very little laboratory equipment, a very small laboratory and a little money could come up with a Law that has rang true for over 100 years. It was fascinating!..

I wasn't able to access the school ebook collection because the website appears to be down. (Sorry, Maureen and Joan) However, I plan to start badgering our librarians to get more of the scientific works on ebooks. It has to be a cheaper alternative and more space saving than trying to obtain the actual book.

Now the torn part... As an avid reader, there is something about holding a book that I enjoy. Maybe it is the smell of the paper and binding or the actual weight of the book in my hands. I am not sure. I do know this... I wouldn't want to take a computer to the beach or on vacation with me... When I am on vacation, I want to get away from electronics, not carry them around. I suppose I could download a book onto my Ipod, if I had one, but that doesn't feel like reading a book to me...

Yes, I know I am old school and it isn't all about me... That having been said, I believe that there is a place for ebooks and a place for a real text... It is up to each person to decide for themselves their own comfort level.