A History of EBooks

"A Short History of EBooks" by Marie Lebert is a historical account written in the early 21st century. This work explores the evolution of eBooks, beginning with the first digital text made available in 1971 through Project Gutenberg, encompassing significant milestones such as the emergence of online bookstores and digital libraries. The book seeks to provide readers with a detailed understanding of how the digital age has transformed access to literature and information. At the start of the book, the author introduces the concept of eBooks and outlines their inception alongside advancements in internet technology. The narrative unfolds with key developments, starting with Project Gutenberg's launch of the first eBook, which aimed to make literary works accessible for free. Lebert discusses the barriers and enthusiasm surrounding digital publishing, detailing how libraries and authors adapted to new platforms for distributing literature. The opening establishes a foundation for a broader examination of how eBooks have evolved over the decades and their impact on traditional publishing and accessibility in the modern world.