I think we need to be aware of how this could change reading behaviour - not so much from the point of view of functionality of the readers and whether it can mimic the 'book experience' - more about the 'business model'.

As far as I can work out Sony's ebook format uses OpenMG Digital Rights Management technology, and their site mentions 'benefits' such as 
"Sets boundaries in which users can freely enjoy digital content while also preventing unauthorized actions".(http://www.sony.net/Products/OpenMG/overview/tech.html)

So don't even think about swapping your favourite book with a friend....

and 
"The separation of digital content from its license allows for online services with flexible schemes."

so I'm sure Sony will offer licences for library use which may or may not allow copyright exceptions to be exercised....

Food for thought!
Jackie

Jackie Proven
Digital Rights Research & Development Assistant
TrustDR JISC Project
UHI Millennium Institute
http://trustdr.ulster.ac.uk/index.php

Room 145
Perth College
Crieff Road
Perth PH1 2NX

Tel. 01738 877339
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www.uhi.ac.uk

>>> Sarah Bruch <[log in to unmask]> 28/09/2006 14:43 >>>
Well, not really but possibly a change to the book as we know it.
 
If you don't already know what i'm talking about have a look at:
http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY 
_BrowseCatalog-Start;sid=RMGheByLdb6hF1mQ-wCrc1OE4r8kZJDXLM8=?CategoryNa
me=pa_portablereader&Dept=audio (sorry about the giant URL). Basically
Sony have released their Portable Reading System (PRS-500) in the US.
 
I've been finding it very interesting reading about how the new eInk
works, plus all the comments from people who've actually seen the
device.
 
I was wondering if anyone else out there has any opinions on this new
generation of eBook readers and how they're going to effect the way we
work (if at all).
 
Sarah Bruch
Multidisciplinary Library
Prince Philip Hospital
Dafen
Llanelli
Carmarthenshire
SA14 8QF
 
Tel/Fax: 01554 749301
 
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