Options Other Than The KindleDX For eTextbooks

I know a lot of people are looking at the Kindle DX as an option for students to download copies of their textbooks. Right now at least six colleges are running a pilot program to use the Kindle for not only textbooks, but as a PDF reader for other class handouts. For many people this can be a difficult decision because of the cost of the DX. It may also be a difficult decision since many students are already carrying a computer to class and may not want to also carry a Kindle.

If your student is really interested in getting their books electronically and not ready to purchase the Kindle DX, you may want to take a look at what is available from CourseSmart. CourseSmart offers textbooks your can read on your computer. You can save 50% on your class textbooks at coursesmart.com.


Here is some information from their website about the program:

CourseSmart provides a *rental* option for students with its subscription model for eTextbooks. eTextbook subscriptions have nice benefits to the student who is inclined to rent his or her textbooks.

1. The subscription covers the length of the course. CourseSmart eTextbooks each have a subscription length of 180, 360, or 540 days. The publisher sets the subscription length based on the number of terms that the course typically covers. For example, General Chemistry is often taught over 3 semesters so General Chemistry titles like Chemistry: The Central Science 10/E come with a 540 day subscription or a 3 term rental.
2. No need to worrying about damaging your printed book while you rent it. The worst part about leasing a car is worrying that you are going to scrape it up or drive over the miles and lose value at the end of the lease. Same goes for a textbook. Don’t highlight too much or spill coffee or you might be on the hook for some additional dollars. Not so with renting eTextbooks. Take notes, highlight, print and copy/paste all you want without running the risk of costing yourself more at the end of the term.
3. Always in stock and available immediately. Rental options don’t do a student much good unless they can find their assigned textbook available for rent. With an eTextbook, students will always find the title available.

I hope this helps for those of you looking for electronic textbooks.