Monday, June 27, 2011

E-reader Ownership Doubles in Six Months

Today Pew Internet Research released a study from Pew Internet & American Life on e-reader and tablet ownership. In November 2010, 6% of Americans owned e-readers. It had grown to 12% by May 2011. Hispanic adults, adults younger than age 65, college graduates and those living in households with incomes of at least $75,000 are most likely to own e-book readers. Parents are also more likely than non-parents to own these devices.




Tablet computers have not seen the same level of growth among U.S. adults in recent months. As of May 2011, 8% of adults report owning a tablet computer such as an iPad, Samsung Galaxy or Motorola Xoom. This represents just a 3 percentage-point increase in ownership since November 2010. Overall, the highest rates of tablet ownership are among Hispanic adults and those with household incomes of at least $75,000 annually.


At Santa Clara City Library


We have certainly seen a surge of questions about e-readers and free library e-books and audio books. The study didn't ask about which devices were being purchased. Our questions are often from new NOOK owners. The library's free electronic resources are a selling point for Barnes & Noble apparently. In the future, Kindle e-reader owners will be able to use the free library materials as well. Visit our Digital Books page to see what is available. Call or stop in if you have questions.

posted by mb