E-book acceptance: What will make users read on screen?

Abstract

While the publishing industry is developing new business and delivery models for electronic titles, libraries are experimenting with the integration of these titles into their collections and services. A major issues, however, is the reluctance to read large textual titles on current screen technology. This paper reports on research that is identifying issues associated with the acceptance of electronic textbook materials. Comparison is made between different digital formats to determine if these alter acceptance of reading textbook material on screen. These preliminary findings suggest a reluctance to move to digital textbooks unless the digital files provide incentives through better or easier access to the content itself.