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Post by ScrapbookMyLife on Jan 14, 2024 16:28:06 GMT
E-book help and advice please.
Disclaimer: I am technology challenged.
I read e-books on my local Library website and Hoopla.....on my desktop computer (google chrome and windows 10).
Some books are not available.
I will only be purchasing e-books that are NOT available on the Library website or Hoopla.
I am wondering what my options are in regards to reading e-books elsewhere.
Is there a way to purchase books and read them on my desk top computer? If so how and where? Do I purchase via amazon and will the e-book open in a browser?
This would be my preference, so I wouldn't have to buy another device(kindle).
Is a secondary device (kindle) the only option? If so, do I simply buy a kindle, then purchase individual e-books via amazon or somewhere else? Is there a membership fee, monthly fee, join up fee, do I have to buy a package of a certain number of books or can I purchase one book at a time, etc...?
If I buy a kindle, how do I get the e-book from amazon to the kindle?
Thank you for any help and advice., that you have to offer.
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GiantsFan
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,488
Site Supporter
Jun 27, 2014 14:44:56 GMT
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Post by GiantsFan on Jan 14, 2024 16:46:29 GMT
You can download the "Kindle for Desktop" app on your computer for free. Kindle for Desktop app Of course these books would be coming from Amazon. Not sure where else to get ebooks, as I only read with Kindle or Libby (my library app for phone) or Kindle on my phone. ETA: There are other places to get books but I haven't tried them and can't recommend. |
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Post by dewryce on Jan 14, 2024 16:58:15 GMT
When I buy a book on Amazon it gives me the option to start reading now and if I select that, it opens a tab in my browser (Safari) with the book. But it also sends it to my iPad, which I use to read with the Kindle app. If you buy a Kindle on Amazon, as opposed to being gifted one, your books will be sent directly to the device when you purchase them. It’s been ages so it’s possible you have to set it up at the beginning but I don’t remember. You can buy one book at a time. If you belong to prime you also get a free book each month out of about 8 to choose from. A couple times a year you get 2. We have a monthly thread for that (Amazon First Reads), come join us! You can also “check out” some books on Prime, I think I have 10 right now. There are no fees, unless you choose Kindle Unlimited which is however many books you can read a month for $10, being able to “check out” 20 at a time. Before you choose this option look at the selection and make sure you like the types of books being offered. eta: This article on Kindle Unlimited vs Prime Reading not only describes the differences, but also has good information on Kindles and Kindle apps. |
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caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,709 
Location: So Cal
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Post by caangel on Jan 14, 2024 16:59:56 GMT
You can also connect your library card to your kindle via the Libby app and check out books. I highly recommend a dedicated reader like a Kindle Paperwhite or Oasis (larger) vs the Kindle devices that act as a tablet for websurfing and other apps. I think I only bought 2 books this year and read 50.
I check out books on my phone via the Libby App and they appear on my kindle. Very easy.
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Post by worrywart on Jan 14, 2024 17:15:04 GMT
I read kindle books on my phone (kindle app) or my kindle. You definitely do not need a Kindle but they are convenient with long battery life (paper white). If you like reading on the computer, you can also read on the Kindle app on windows.
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milocat
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,588
Location: 55 degrees north in Alberta, Canada
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Post by milocat on Jan 14, 2024 17:16:12 GMT
Is there a way to purchase books and read them on my desk top computer? If so how and where? Do I purchase via amazon and will the e-book open in a browser? This would be my preference, so I wouldn't have to buy another device(kindle). Is a secondary device (kindle) the only option? If so, do I simply buy a kindle, then purchase individual e-books via amazon or somewhere else? Is there a membership fee, monthly fee, join up fee, do I have to buy a package of a certain number of books or can I purchase one book at a time, etc...? If I buy a kindle, how do I get the e-book from amazon to the kindle? Thank you for any help and advice., that you have to offer. I have a Kobo (I believe Kindle works the same) ereader not Kindle/Amazon. You can read via an app on desktop, tablets, phone or dedicated ereader. When you purchase in the store it is in your account when you go to the app/website. You just buy each individual book and it's your forever. I know there is something called Kobo Plus which is $9.99/month for unlimited books. You can also check out books from the library via Libby. I like to browse and shop on my phone or computer then read on my ereader. It's portable, can read in any light and easy on the eyes since it's front lit unlike computers and phones that are backlit. |
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Post by monklady123 on Jan 14, 2024 17:21:22 GMT
The screen on the Kindle Paperwhite or Oasis is different from a computer/laptop/iPad/phone screen...it's more "flat" (for lack of the real word that describes screens, lol), more like a real book page. No glare and no "shine". If you do decide to go that route you just register it with Amazon (and if you can't figure out how to do that you can do the online chat option with customer service and they'll walk you through it). Then when you buy a book it will go straight to your Kindle. Also, when you check a Kindle book out of the library you will click "read now with Kindle", it will take you to Amazon, then you'll click "get library book" and it will magically appear on your Kindle.  Great technology. I LOVE my Kindle.  I realize that's not exactly what you asked, but I love my Kindle that much. lol |
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caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,709
Location: So Cal
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Post by caangel on Jan 14, 2024 17:33:20 GMT
Yes reading on a Paperwhite/Oasis is not the same experience as a computer, tablet or phone. It is much more similar to a book.
I have started having eye strain in the evenings where reading on my phone is a struggle. But I hop in bed and read on my Paperwhite no problem.
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Post by snugglebutter on Jan 14, 2024 19:02:02 GMT
I bought a refurbished Paperwhite and have found it extremely useful. I mostly read library e-books and the Prime freebies.
The only service that does not work (to my knowledge) on Kindle is Hoopla.
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Post by dewryce on Jan 14, 2024 19:24:29 GMT
I bought a refurbished Paperwhite and have found it extremely useful. I mostly read library e-books and the Prime freebies. The only service that does not work (to my knowledge) on Kindle is Hoopla. I’m considering an ereader so I looked I to this a little more. This is on the current Hoopla FAQs search page. Can I transfer hoopla content from the website/app onto a separate device? Downloading is not available through web browsers, so content cannot be transferred to an mp3, nor can it be sent to your Amazon Kindle E-Reader. Downloading is available through the hoopla app, however downloaded titles are wholly contained within the hoopla app to protect against piracy – files will not appear in iTunes or other “downloads” folders. |
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Post by Zee on Jan 14, 2024 21:05:57 GMT
I read almost exclusively on my Kindle paperwhite because I can read in the dark while lying in bed, and I can make the font bigger if needed. (So I can read without glasses while lying there)
I really only read for personal enjoyment while I'm going to sleep, so it's important to me not to have to have lights or glasses/contacts. But, you can also read it easily in the daytime in bright light, unlike your phone or a tablet.
I cannot imagine reading an entire book on a desktop to be very enjoyable.
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Post by ScrapbookMyLife on Jan 14, 2024 23:38:49 GMT
Thank you for all the advice. I think I am going to buy a kindle, so I have the option of reading anywhere, if I so choose.
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Post by monklady123 on Jan 15, 2024 0:35:42 GMT
Thank you for all the advice. I think I am going to buy a kindle, so I have the option of reading anywhere, if I so choose. I think that's an excellent decision. I love being able to easily read in bed without holding a heavy book, and no worries about how much light there is, or even be able to change books if the one I'm just not into the one I'm reading. If you have your library app on your phone, or the Libby app, you can even borrow a book right there from your bed and have it sent to your Kindle, all without getting out from under the cozy blankets. |
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bethany102399
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,641
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Post by bethany102399 on Jan 15, 2024 2:35:09 GMT
Love love love my paperwhite, I can easily read books from the library and Amazon and have been able to "side load" books from authors who offer amazon friendly files. I can read the same book via my phone/Desktop using the kindle app or amazon itself and it will sync on all my devices so if I read on my desktop (I often "misplace" my paperwhite) then I can sync my laptop to it and it will pick up where I left off on the paperwhite. Same thing when I then find wherever I left my paperwhite - I can sync again and it takes me to where I left off on the laptop.
DD is anti-Amazon and asked for a Kobo for Christmas. Our local library offers kobo friendly files as well and she loves it. It's got a similar set up to the paperwhite with an app etc.
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caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,709
Location: So Cal
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Post by caangel on Jan 15, 2024 2:41:16 GMT
Thank you for all the advice. I think I am going to buy a kindle, so I have the option of reading anywhere, if I so choose. Again for the best reading experience sure you are looking at the Kindle Paperwhite or Kindle Oasis NOT a Kindle Fire which is a traditional tablet not a dedicated ereader. |
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iowgirl
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,295
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Post by iowgirl on Jan 15, 2024 15:28:21 GMT
You can buy one book at a time. If you belong to prime you also get a free book each month out of about 8 to choose from. A couple times a year you get 2. We have a monthly thread for that (Amazon First Reads), come join us! You can also “check out” some books on Prime, I think I have 10 right now. The free book every month (First Reads) is great! It is a nice part of Prime that is often overlooked. Thank you for all the advice. I think I am going to buy a kindle, so I have the option of reading anywhere, if I so choose. I highly recommend the Paperwhite. The ability to use it in all lighting conditions and the reduction of eye strain is worth it. You can get refurbished ones. I have the 'ad' version on mine. I did pay for Ad Free on a previous model, but honestly, it is just an add when you start it up. I don't even notice it. The battery life is long, you can set it for any light condition and adjust the type size and font to what works best for you. It is so light to hold on to. Best investment ever! When I check out books from my Library, it automatically downloads to my Amazon/Kindle account. It is a seamless process. It just syncs right up to my Paperwhite. You just need to set it up once. If you have trouble, or are iffy about it - just take your Paperwhite to your Library and have them help you get started with it. My Library uses Libby. Audiobooks are also awesome. I used to hate them, but I found with the right author and the right person reading the book they are very enjoyable. You can check out audiobooks from your Library and listen to them on your phone. I use Libby for that. I enjoy them the best with my airpods or headphones. Makes boring tasks like dishes, laundry, mowing, hauling 200,000 bushels of corn, etc. bearable! LOL |
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Post by Merge on Jan 15, 2024 18:09:44 GMT
You can buy one book at a time. If you belong to prime you also get a free book each month out of about 8 to choose from. A couple times a year you get 2. We have a monthly thread for that (Amazon First Reads), come join us! You can also “check out” some books on Prime, I think I have 10 right now. The free book every month (First Reads) is great! It is a nice part of Prime that is often overlooked. Thank you for all the advice. I think I am going to buy a kindle, so I have the option of reading anywhere, if I so choose. I highly recommend the Paperwhite. The ability to use it in all lighting conditions and the reduction of eye strain is worth it. You can get refurbished ones. I have the 'ad' version on mine. I did pay for Ad Free on a previous model, but honestly, it is just an add when you start it up. I don't even notice it. The battery life is long, you can set it for any light condition and adjust the type size and font to what works best for you. It is so light to hold on to. Best investment ever! When I check out books from my Library, it automatically downloads to my Amazon/Kindle account. It is a seamless process. It just syncs right up to my Paperwhite. You just need to set it up once. If you have trouble, or are iffy about it - just take your Paperwhite to your Library and have them help you get started with it. My Library uses Libby. Audiobooks are also awesome. I used to hate them, but I found with the right author and the right person reading the book they are very enjoyable. You can check out audiobooks from your Library and listen to them on your phone. I use Libby for that. I enjoy them the best with my airpods or headphones. Makes boring tasks like dishes, laundry, mowing, hauling 200,000 bushels of corn, etc. bearable! LOL Agree with all of this. I always have an audiobook going when I'm doing household chores. |
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scrapngranny
Pearl Clutcher
Only slightly senile
Posts: 4,840
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Post by scrapngranny on Jan 15, 2024 18:38:00 GMT
I read all my books on my iPad. I use the Kindle app or the a or my local library through Cloud Library. I use Hoopla sometimes too.
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Post by Lurkingpea on Jan 15, 2024 19:13:27 GMT
Thank you for all the advice. I think I am going to buy a kindle, so I have the option of reading anywhere, if I so choose. Great decision. If you can handle the price I would look at an Oasis. The buttons don't sound like much, but I prefer them. I read every second I get. The buttons are just easier. |
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Post by ScrapbookMyLife on Jan 15, 2024 21:59:11 GMT
I downloaded the kindle app to my desktop and signed up for amazon. Surprised myself by figuring it all out on my own. Very proud. Now I'm thinking about buying a small laptop instead of a kindle. Decisions! Decisions! I will still primarily use my desk top. With a small laptop, I could check my email, read on kindle-the library website-hoopla-check the pea board, etc.......all from my bed.  It would be nice to have the option to read in bed. I'm NOT technology savvy, so this is a big step for me. Thank you all, again! |
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Post by Lurkingpea on Jan 15, 2024 23:57:30 GMT
I downloaded the kindle app to my desktop and signed up for amazon. Surprised myself by figuring it all out on my own. Very proud. Now I'm thinking about buying a small laptop instead of a kindle. Decisions! Decisions! I will still primarily use my desk top. With a small laptop, I could check my email, read on kindle-the library website-hoopla-check the pea board, etc.......all from my bed. It would be nice to have the option to read in bed. I'm NOT technology savvy, so this is a big step for me. Thank you all, again! Do you not have a smart phone? I have a basic smart phone and I can check email and access this site from my phone. It isn't good for your eyes to be on a laptop type screen for reading. |
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Post by monklady123 on Jan 16, 2024 0:12:50 GMT
I downloaded the kindle app to my desktop and signed up for amazon. Surprised myself by figuring it all out on my own. Very proud. Now I'm thinking about buying a small laptop instead of a kindle. Decisions! Decisions! I will still primarily use my desk top. With a small laptop, I could check my email, read on kindle-the library website-hoopla-check the pea board, etc.......all from my bed. It would be nice to have the option to read in bed. I'm NOT technology savvy, so this is a big step for me. Thank you all, again! Personally I would just get a Kindle -- the Paperwhite or Oasis. The screen is so much better for your eyes, it's light (lighter than even the smallest laptop), etc. |
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milocat
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,588
Location: 55 degrees north in Alberta, Canada
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Post by milocat on Jan 16, 2024 0:23:55 GMT
I downloaded the kindle app to my desktop and signed up for amazon. Surprised myself by figuring it all out on my own. Very proud. Now I'm thinking about buying a small laptop instead of a kindle. Decisions! Decisions! I will still primarily use my desk top. With a small laptop, I could check my email, read on kindle-the library website-hoopla-check the pea board, etc.......all from my bed. It would be nice to have the option to read in bed. I'm NOT technology savvy, so this is a big step for me. Thank you all, again! Personally I would just get a Kindle -- the Paperwhite or Oasis. The screen is so much better for your eyes, it's light (lighter than even the smallest laptop), etc. I have a small Kobo, like the Paperwhite and a Kobo with buttons like the Oasis, both are just lighter than my phone. I assume the Kindles are roughly the same weight. When I am getting over a migraine I can't look at my phone, I can feel my brain zinging but I can read on my Kobo. And bonus you can read on a frontlit ereader outside, where you can't see your phone/tablet/laptop. |
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Post by ScrapbookMyLife on Jan 16, 2024 0:27:15 GMT
I downloaded the kindle app to my desktop and signed up for amazon. Surprised myself by figuring it all out on my own. Very proud. Now I'm thinking about buying a small laptop instead of a kindle. Decisions! Decisions! I will still primarily use my desk top. With a small laptop, I could check my email, read on kindle-the library website-hoopla-check the pea board, etc.......all from my bed. It would be nice to have the option to read in bed. I'm NOT technology savvy, so this is a big step for me. Thank you all, again! Do you not have a smart phone? I have a basic smart phone and I can check email and access this site from my phone. It isn't good for your eyes to be on a laptop type screen for reading. I do. I have an iphone, I check my email on it frequently. |
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Post by ScrapbookMyLife on Jan 16, 2024 0:40:49 GMT
Reading everyone's advice in regards to a small laptop. I didn't know a small laptop was bad for constant reading.
Re-thinking my plan. Back to purchasing a kindle.
So glad I asked for advice and help, in regards to this.
I have an iphone, which I use for my email when I am away from home.
I don't do any social media or message boards from phone. 1) Because I don't like reading things on the smaller sized screen. 2) Because social media, message boards, pinterest are my thing >> time filler for when I am home.
I was thinking about a kindle, so that I could purchase and read ebooks that aren't available on my Library website or Hoopla. Then tossed around the laptop idea. Being able to read elsewhere, other than at my desk is an added (more comfortable) bonus. Would love to be able to read in bed.
Thankful for the advice and wisdom of the peas. It is appreciated.
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Post by dewryce on Jan 16, 2024 0:52:25 GMT
Reading everyone's advice in regards to a small laptop. I didn't know a small laptop was bad for constant reading. Re-thinking my plan. Back to purchasing a kindle. So glad I asked for advice and help, in regards to this. I have an iphone, which I use for my email when I am away from home. I don't do any social media or message boards from phone. 1) Because I don't like reading things on the smaller sized screen. 2) Because social media, message boards, pinterest are my thing >> time filler for when I am home. I was thinking about a kindle, so that I could purchase and read ebooks that aren't available on my Library website or Hoopla. Then tossed around the laptop idea. Being able to read elsewhere, other than at my desk is an added (more comfortable) bonus. Would love to be able to read in bed. Thankful for the advice and wisdom of the peas. It is appreciated. I’m excited for you, I think this will be a lot easier to read, especially in bed. |
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caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,709
Location: So Cal
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Post by caangel on Jan 16, 2024 1:32:13 GMT
If you are already tempted by social media and web surfing, I highly recommend a Paperwhite/ Oasis. The fact that it doesn't have the capability to do these things is one of the selling factors for me. No distractions! Just reading!
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Post by ScrapbookMyLife on Jan 16, 2024 2:20:13 GMT
If you are already tempted by social media and web surfing, I highly recommend a Paperwhite/ Oasis. The fact that it doesn't have the capability to do these things is one of the selling factors for me. No distractions! Just reading! I am not tempted by social media. When I am reading, I usually just read....though I will glance at my email if there's a suddenly influx of incoming email (just in case there is any breaking news). I am tempted by the idea of not sitting at my desk, and having a more comfortable option for reading. The laptop thought and idea, was simply weighing the best options in regards to making a purchase and finances. A laptop would offer the ability for more to do, if I so choose. The kindle would be for reading only. The pea recommendation is that a kindle is better for a lot of daily reading, instead of a lap top. |
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Post by scrappinmom3 on Jan 16, 2024 3:48:41 GMT
I read a lot. I have had a kindle for years. I never have to buy any ebooks. They will show up sooner or later from Libby (library). I also have several library’s that I use. I use my own, my son in laws, my sons, and I have found some free ones. I always have books that are on holds, but many will show up that I can borrow right away. Have fun!!
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caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,709
Location: So Cal
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Post by caangel on Jan 16, 2024 6:43:01 GMT
If you are already tempted by social media and web surfing, I highly recommend a Paperwhite/ Oasis. The fact that it doesn't have the capability to do these things is one of the selling factors for me. No distractions! Just reading! I am not tempted by social media. When I am reading, I usually just read....though I will glance at my email if there's a suddenly influx of incoming email (just in case there is any breaking news). I am tempted by the idea of not sitting at my desk, and having a more comfortable option for reading. The laptop thought and idea, was simply weighing the best options in regards to making a purchase and finances. A laptop would offer the ability for more to do, if I so choose. The kindle would be for reading only. The pea recommendation is that a kindle is better for a lot of daily reading, instead of a lap top. You will love a Kindle Paperwhite/Oasis for reading. Instead of a laptop I'd recommend an iPad with a keyboard. Much lighter for carrying around and still can use like a laptop when you need that function. And probably cheaper even at the larger screen size. |
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