International Data Corporation reports that e-Reader sales, like Kindles and Nooks, were down in 2012 compared to 2011. Yet, tablet sales, like iPads, were up.

Local libraries say they're seeing an increase in readers who want to try devices that allow them to read electronically.

"I was given the Kindle last year at Christmas by my brother and sister-in-law," said Susie Linscomb.

She works at Bowman Library and loves to read, so her family thought it'd be a good gift. Yet, she says, she's not very tech savvy.

"When I got it and opened the package, there were no directions. So you had to go online to get directions so instead, I came to the library to ask Adrienne to explain it to me," said Linscomb.

"People who get them as gifts may be a little less familiar with what they have," said Adrienne Davis.

Davis is the reference librarian at Bowman Library. She says since Christmas, they've had people come in almost every day asking for help.

"They're certainly interested in taking advantage of it and using it, but they may or may not be completely comfortable with using the device," said Davis.

"I was still not crazy about it," said Linscomb.

Yet, she learned how to use it and now helps other visitors learn to use theirs. As for her though, she still favors holding a book in her hand.

"I don't know. I guess I'm just more used to having to turn the pages and hold the book," said Linscomb.

The library is part of an e-Book downloading database so members can get e-Books for free.

"You can take a lot of books with you wherever you go. You don't have to pack a separate suitcase, you don't have to carry a big bag you can have a huge book, you can have multiple books right in your pocket," said Davis.

Because of that, Susie says she's willing to give her e-Reader another try... "Possibly on vacation."

Bowman Library is hosting e-Reader workshops tomorrow for everyone who has an e-Reader and needs a little help using it and learned to borrow e-Books.

The workshops are Saturday, January 12 at Bowman Library:

11-12:30 p.m. Kindle / Kindle Fire Workshop
1-2:30 p.m. iPhone / iPad / iPod touch Workshop
3-4:30 p.m. Basic e-Reader Workshop (Nook, Sony, etc.)

Each workshop will cover how to access the wide variety of e-Books available through the Blue Ridge Download Consortium. Workshop attendees will learn how to browse, select, check out and transfer e-Books as well as how to use other features such as holds and the Wish List.

A valid Handley Regional Library card is required. To register, call 540-869-9000 ext. 203.

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