PDA 124: Digital Reader - Elementary
E-book Text Formats (for computers and handheld devices)
E-books are published in five main text formats that are widely available.
Software for these formats can be downloaded free of charge (if necessary).
Which format is best?
It depends...see the table below.
Then check out what e-book expert Terence W. Cavanaugh has to say about the five formats.
Plain Text (.txt) Can be read by any text reader or word processor.
Extremely basic format--very few adjustments can be made.
Project Gutenberg books are published in this format.
Format rarely used for popular/recent titles due to copyright/security issues.
Web Page (.htm) Can be read by any web browser.
Includes a few more capabilities for adjustments and interactivity.
Electronic Text Center of the University of Virginia supports this format.
Format rarely used for popular/recent titles due to copyright/security issues.
Adobe Reader (.pdf) Yes, this is the same Reader used to view .pdf files on the web.
However, you must "activate" your copy of Reader to read e-books.
The Help section of Adobe Reader 7.0 directs you to choose File > Digital Editions > Authorize Devices and then follow the instructions given.
Format frequently used for popular/recent titles.
MS Reader (.lit) Designed specifically for e-book reading.
Customizable displays simulate "real" reading.
Variety of features for classroom use including bookmarks, highlighting, annotations, and more.
Format frequently used for popular/recent titles.
official website
download MS Reader here
Tips and TricksWe are trying out this program in class.
Download Aesop's Fables from the Univ. of Virginia's E-Text Center
eReader (.pdb) Designed specifically for e-book reading.
Customizable displays simulate "real" reading.
Can be used with handheld devices.
Includes features similar to MS Reader; however, some available only with Pro version (for additional fee)
Format frequently used for popular/recent titles.
2006 Michelle Glatt