Kindling the flames of knowledge

In the January/February 2007 issue of Online Currents (recommended journal), an author discussing eBook devices, made some disparaging remarks about Amazon's projected device - the Kindle.

As of February 13, 2008, not only has it been released - they have run out of stocks, so quickly are they selling in the USA.

You can find out about Kindles, and ponder the implications for libraries, by visiting
http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Amazons-Wireless-Reading-Device/dp/B000FI73MA

The Kindle is an example of what the supposed revolution of Web 2.0 will be bringing us more of. I must admit I was becoming frustrated with the slow uptake of eBook devices (and not just because I want to save trees, although that would be nice too), but the apparent popularity of the Kindle took me by surprise. The phenomenon is no doubt building on the vast customer base of Amazon. Other companies will follow suit. The trickle becomes a stream becomes a flood? And what about libraries? Will we be able to create and sell products through Amazon to clients using Kindles? And what about Google and their massive digitalisation project? Project Gutenberg? One hopes we will have some useful convergence rather than an out and out war for market share.

Quo vadis libraries?

George Eraclides