Tablets as e-readers in Library - advice appreciated

[OverWorked]

I've been tasked with setting up tablets to use as e-readers in the Library. I'd really like to hear from anyone who's done this.

 

We at the very early stages. Brief outline is:-

 

1) should be cheap. We're a small school with limited budget.

2) The only intended use is as e-readers

3) should be some way of locking them down to stop mischief

 

There are some very cheap Android tablets out there. I've tried one, created a Google account and downloaded free e-reader apps from Google Play. That's about as far as I got.

 

Has anyone else tried tablets as e-readers? Any advice appreciated (even if it's "don't do it").

[maark]

why tablets and not a kindle or similar?

[pcstru]

Why not just use an e-reader like a kindle? It's already locked down, is only intended as an e-reader, if you get an e-ink device they have stupendous battery life and are less of a strain on eyes. They are tricksy to manage content, but that will apply regardless of the device.

[synaesthesia]

^ This. Warning though - kindles do NOT like proxies, so you'll have a bit of work to do if you have one.

[OverWorked]

^ This. Warning though - kindles do NOT like proxies, so you'll have a bit of work to do if you have one.

 

Thanks. I've also tried an old-style e-ink Kindle. I couldn't get it to work though a proxy (which was actually a good thing).

 

I think the best path will be dedicated e-readers. I think the person concerned was just wedded to the idea of tablets.

 

Thanks everyone.

[win]

The screens on tablets are not as readable as kindles (long texts). For reading only i recommend the kindle route to avoid bookworms complaining about getting eye strains

[foofighterjim]

Best thing about Kindles is that you can add new books to them via USB, you don't need a network connection directly on the Kindle at all.