Abstract

The editorial function has been characterized by a strong systems component, in the sense that all chain elements are closely interrelated in a necessary concatenation. The emergence of digital technologies has led to a breakdown of this logical structure, altering traditional mediation and intermediation systems and allowing the disappearance of some essential elements. Thus, roles such as the publisher or distributor, essential elements in an analog environment, may disappear in some of the models that are being generated. In line with this, new business models are also emerging and new actors in this field, with concurrent advantages which their previous experiences allow them. Amazon, Apple and Google are taking a strong position in the electronic book market.

Abstract

The Rector Gabriel Ferraté Library (BRGF) at the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) has recently launched an electronic books lending service. This paper describes the experience of evaluating the e-book readers in the current market, the content to be made available on these devices, and how well they actually work, as well as the results of 2 months of ongoing service. Finally, it points to short-term future actions with all four copies of iRex iLiad 2nd Edition available in the library.

Abstract

The multi-channel and multi-platform technologies allow the mobility of information, which has a direct impact on the evolution of the electronic book. The change is dictated by the emergence of a new generation of electronic paper devices, as well as their own models of information management. In the present paper we review the electronic book concept and present the basic characteristics of the devices that can be found on the market; then we describe the elements needed to carry out projects that produce works designed for electronic ink devices.

Abstract

This is both a historical overview of reader devices of electronic documents and a description of the current technology characterized by the so called “electronic paper”. Gyricon technologies are analysed as well as the electrophoretic screens and devices that use the electrowetting principle. A wide variety of file formats compatible with the different kinds of reader devices are shown, as well as the problems derived from reader incompatibility. The more outstanding models available in the market and their services are also described. A reflection is proposed about the different usages and their effectiveness, document dissemination, and the expectations that the e-readers have created regarding future development. Nowadays these devices make the reading of electronic documents easier and more comfortable.

Abstract

With the launch in September 2014 of the project eBiblio to lend ebooks, promoted by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport in collaboration with the autonomous communities, began a new phase in the Spanish public libraries. The digital loan was incorporated into the rest of the services offered by the libraries and represented a number of management challenges. The changes have affected librarians who have had to be technologically trained to use a new service and users who also need to acquire a range of technological skills to access readings. In this article all aspects that converge in the digital loan will be described and the evolution and future prospects of the service will be analysed, focusing some of these aspects on the specific case of eBiblio Madrid.