An etextbook is a digital version of a textbook that can be read on an e-reader, smartphone, or computer. Etextbooks are a convenient and cost-effective way for many students to get the educational materials they need. The digital format also gives users a lot of freedom in terms of how and when they use their etextbook. Furthermore, the extextbook format makes it easier for publishers and authors to update content, reducing the need for schools and instructors to replace outdated textbooks with new editions on a regular basis.
Purchasing textbooks at the start of the school year is a significant time and financial investment for many students. Worse, student bookstores frequently run out of books, leaving hapless students worried about the materials they’ll need to finish their assignments. Students can avoid the risk of books selling out before they can purchase them by downloading them directly from the publisher or from an online bookstore. Etextbooks are also likely to be less expensive than traditional textbooks, making it easier for students to pay for their education.
Another benefit of using digital textbooks is the ease with which they can be accessed. Students, particularly those who live off-campus or have extremely hectic schedules, no longer have to lug multiple heavy books around in backpacks or tote bags. Instead, they can use their reading device or portable computer to access the textbook in question. Studying with an etextbook has its benefits as well, as the student can easily study for any class that uses them as long as he has access to his reading device or computer. Many reading devices allow students to take notes and highlight content throughout the book, and most etextbooks can be easily searched for specific content.
The etextbook also has a number of benefits for professors. If a book is available as an etextbook, faculty who might not otherwise assign useful textbooks due to concerns about their availability or cost may be able to do so. Due to the lower cost of publishing an etextbook compared to a paper textbook, previously out-of-print books may become available to students again. Furthermore, out-of-print books in the public domain can frequently be downloaded for free. Etextbooks simply make more sense in disciplines where there is a lot of change, because they are easy to update and there is no need to worry about getting them shipped or stocked in the bookstore before classes start.