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Remember when Marie Kondo told folks to clean up and they got mad? White women in particular chased this woman down the alleyways of social media with their virtual pitchforks. But her intentions were in a good place. I for one, don't like the clutter of having too much stuff. I love to read, but I find myself getting annoyed and anxious when my reading area starts to feel suffocating. But that's why I love ebooks and the rise of digital media.
While tech advancements has its ethical drawbacks, it's extremely beneficial to be able to enjoy your favorite books, TV shows, games and movies without the burden of a million dvds and books taking up space. Especially in this modern economy where many of us are minimalists and don't own houses like our parents and grandparents.
While I love decorating my space, I have to be mindful about my lack of space. And I HATE clutter. Which makes having an Instagram-worthy bookcase/reading area, a challenge for me. With ebooks and audiobooks, I can download and read as many books as I want, whenever I want, and usually at a cheaper price. Even borrowing from my local library via ebook apps is as easy as the click of a button. Which really came in handy during the pandemic. I also love the sensory options digital media provides. Being able to adjust fonts, page colors, or using an audiobook when I want something more relaxing and easy to digest.
Unfortunately ebooks aren't for everybody. (Yeah we get it, you love the smell of 'turning a page' yadda yadda.) But if you are interested in coming over to the cool side, I've got a quick rundown of ebooks apps that might be a good fit for you!
1. Everand (previously known as Scribd).
a good selection of ebooks and audiobooks. Including indie authors and popular stuff. No limit on reads/borrow time and the monthly sub is like $12.
2. Libby. (goes according to your local library.) Basically like Everand but free. Except it's an actual library, so you're less likely to find indies and the stuff you want might be on hold. But you can link to your Kindle device!
3. Hoopla. Basically a dollar tree version of Libby lol. I'm not a fan of their ebook functionality, and I don't think their titles are as up to date as Libby, but it's still free. I use them as a last resort for audiobooks if Everand or Libby don't have something.
4. Kindle. Obviously the most popular and most used, but Amazon ebooks have gotten pricey and Kindle Unlimited is not a free for all. It's mostly for indies and not every book you want will be available on KU. If it wasn't for Libby allowing transfers I don't think I'd use Kindle as much.
5. Internet Archive. I know there's been a lot of controversy surrounding this site and the lack of regulations. I do not condone piracy. But I do appreciate the ability to access older, out-of-print material. That's the ONLY thing I use it for. And the only thing it should be used for.
6. Audible. Honestly, I'm not a fan, and only use them if I have a free credit. The audiobooks are usually expensive, and you have to pay for a monthly subscription ON TOP of paying for the books. Im sorry, but it's one of the other. Get with the program amazon. But that's why I love Everand.
There's also other sites like Smashwords, and nook from Barnes & Noble. But I don't use those, although my own books are available. Whatever you choose, just remember that you have options! Happy Reading!
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