Using e-reader versus hard copy to encourage reading

[ViewsAreMine]

I am trying to encourage my children to become regular readers (well voracious if I'm being honest) for reasons which include improving their vocabulary, reading and spelling.

Thanks to lovely mumsnetters on other threads, I've got loads of suggestions for books they can read. Problem is space. We don't to get sell/donate books fast enough. So I'm looking to switch to an e-reader instead. Have any of you used them instead of hard copy books for your children? What cons/pros have you noticed using either medium?

My 7 year old is a bookworm, reads all the time and usually has several "real" books on the go plus another on her kindle paper white (no idea how she does it). She definitely prefers an actual book if given the choice, but the kindle goes everywhere with her (car/appointments/holidays etc) so I'd say she probably reads that more overall. Probably not quite what you need to hear as she will read anything she can get her hands on so needs no encouragement. However I think it shows that she gets her enjoyment from the book - regardless of how it's accessed. What about the library? We usually visit weekly & it's a highlight - she loves that she can have any book she wants (within reason) and doesn't worry about making the wrong choice as it costs nothing and can be returned unread if not enjoyed.

I would agree with ViewsAreMine that the library is your friend here.

My DD and I go together when we can. I also make good use of the online library catalogue search for books, reserve/renew them, and request books from other libraries. I receive an email when a book is ready to collect from our small local library, and then pop out in my lunch hour to return/collect books.

DD has a constant supply of books to choose from, and it costs nothing.