If you’re looking to give a gift this holiday season that will continue to delight and entertain your loved ones long after the last eggnog has been drunk, consider giving a tablet or eReader. When you pair up a tablet with free library resources you get thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, music albums, and magazines to borrow or stream for free. Stop in the library to pick up a card to include with your gift that briefly explains these great resources. If you’re not sure which tablet to get, check out our basic guide below. While you may have read tablet reviews from other tech review sources, few of them (if any) mention which freebies you can easily access with your library card. If you’re an MPL library patron, read on, and if you’re not one yet, come on over and sign up!
Kindle (original) While this eReader is very basic, it still allows you to download library eBooks- the process is slightly more complicated and you’ll need a PC as well, but this device is easy on the eyes when reading for long periods. Cons: Can’t access free digital magazines, music, or audiobooks. Screen flashes between page turns and many patrons find the navigation confusing. Pros: Super cheap- starting prices are under $70.
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Kindle Fire HDX 7” Still a very affordable tablet, this device can access most free library services, including eBooks, audiobooks, and music. The quality of the screen is not terrific, and this blogger found that reading for any length of time was uncomfortable, mostly due to the blue bleeding around the screen’s edges- it’s possible this is less of a problem on the larger models. Cons: Readability, and does not work well with Google products like Gmail and Maps. Also, cannot access some library resources such as free magazines, and some eBooks. Pros: Good price for a tablet with fast internet browsing and great integration with Amazon Marketplace.
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Apple iPad & mini These high-end devices have few drawbacks except for the price. With this device you are ensured a smooth reading experience and access to all the library resources. Cons: Price. Also, free music downloads from the library require downloading to a PC before syncing with an iPad. Pros: Sparkling screen resolution and access to a world of free things, both from the library and the plethora of Apple apps.
Want info about other eReaders or tablets (such as the Google Nexus 7, Nook, or Samsung Galaxy Tab) and how they work with library services? Contact the Reference Desk! (973) 744-0500 x2235
