READ AN E-BOOK Day

Read An eBook Day is observed every September 18 to celebrate the 24/7 reading accessibility and ease that ebooks offer. Can you imagine that although the idea of an ebook was born in 1930, it wasn’t until 41 years later that it came into existence?

An ebook (electronic book) is a book presented in digital format that people can read on dedicated e-readers, mobile phones, tablets, or P.Cs. An ebook can contain texts, images, or both. Due to ebooks’ accessibility and immense popularity, many classics and old bestselling books have been republished as ebooks. Even many authors are now choosing to mainly publish their books only in ebook format.

HISTORY OF READ AN EBOOK DAY

The idea of an ebook was born in 1930 after Rob Brown watched his first talkie — movies with sound. He introduced this idea in his manifesto, explaining what he envisioned the future for books should look like.

In 1949, a Spanish teacher, Angela Ruiz Robles invented the first automated book reader, the Enciclopedia Mecánica. Texts and graphics were loaded onto the device using spools and operated with compressed air. Robles’ idea of an automated reader was born out of the desire to reduce the number of books that kids had to carry to school every day. However, the device never went into mass production, and the prototype ended up at the National Museum of Science and Technology in A Coruña.

Despite Robles’ invention, it would take 22 years for the first ebook to appear, and that was by a stroke of luck and the introduction of the internet. After being given unprecedented computer time, Michael Hart decided to type his copy of the Declaration of Independence into a computer in plain text. He then shared it on the ARPANET to be freely downloaded by everyone. That led to the founding of Project Gutenberg, which focused on creating electronic copies of texts and publications.

The late 1980s and the 2000s saw different inventions and innovations that helped shape the ebook into what it is today, including the introduction of the first e-readers, standardization of ebook formats, and online ebook stores.

In 2014, OverDrive got the idea to create a day to celebrate the existence of ebooks. That eventually led to the annual celebration of Read An Ebook Day every September 18.

READ AN EBOOK DAY TIMELINE

1930

The Readies

Bob Brown introduces the concept of an ebook in his manifesto, “The Readies.”

1971

Project Gutenberg

Michael Hart launches Project Gutenberg to create electronic copies of texts and books.

1993

Ebook is now commercial

BiblioBytes introduces a website for selling ebooks on the internet.

2014

Read An Ebook Day is Born

OverDrive, an ebook distribution company, launches Read An Ebook Day.

READ AN EBOOK DAY FAQS

Can you print an ebook?

Due to the limitations imposed by publishers and copyright, it’s not possible to print an entire ebook. However, you can print a percentage of the ebook for your reading.

Where can I download ebooks for free?

Websites that can legally download ebooks online for free include Project Gutenberg, Open Library, Internet Archive, P.D.F. Books World, Planet ebook, and Amazon Free Kindle Books.

What do I need to read an ebook?

There are several ways you can read an ebook, depending on what you find to be comfortable for you. There are dedicated ebook devices like Amazon’s Kindle, Barnes & Noble’s NOOK, and Sony Reader that are mainly for reading ebooks. You can also download ebook readers on your tablet, smartphone, laptop, or desktop and read your eBooks on it.

READ AN EBOOK DAY ACTIVITIES

  1. Read an ebookWhat better way is there to celebrate Read An eBook Day than to read an ebook?! You can use this day to read one of your favorite books or the next book on your reading list that is available in ebook format. Enjoy a cup of coffee, tea, or hot choco while reading. You can also go to your favorite spot in the city and read the ebook.
  2. Start an ebook clubAn ebook club offers a lot more options than your average book club. That means you can meet online and collaborate on your reading. Also, you won’t have to wait for the print copy of a book before starting your reading. Starting an ebook club is not as complicated as it may seem. Invite a few friends to work together with you on it, write a list of books that should be read for the first months, set meeting times, and promote your club on social media and event websites.
  3. Write and publish your first ebookAnother way to celebrate Read An eBook Day as an aspiring author is to write your first ebook. In this internet age, getting your book out there is easier than ever. Using tools like Bit.ai, Google Docs, Calibre, and Scrivener, you can convert your novel into ebook formats within minutes at little to no cost. You can even have it for purchase online within hours with platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct, NOOK Press, Lulu, and Google Play.

5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT EBOOKS THAT YOU DON’T KNOW

  1. A Bible commentary is the longest ebookThe MacArthur New Testament Commentary is the longest single ebook, equivalent to 13,080 print pages.
  2. Fiction reigns supremeFiction is the highest-selling ebook genre.
  3. 56,000 ebooks every 30 daysEvery month, about 56,000 ebooks are self-published and released for readers’ consumption.
  4. Only a minority consume just ebooksAccording to statistics, it’s just 7% of the American adult population that only read ebooks.
  5. Print books still outsell ebooksDespite the global pandemic, sales of print books increased by 13.2%, and that of ebooks fell by 8%, compared to 2020.

WHY WE LOVE READ AN EBOOK DAY

  1. eBooks are sustainableUnlike print books, you don’t have to cut down trees to publish ebooks. Also, you don’t need a dedicated room or library to store ebooks. That helps reduce your carbon footprint and the impact of climate change.
  2. eBooks are accessibleSince ebooks are available online, you can quickly go to an online store, search for the latest book from your favorite author, and buy and download it in less than 10 minutes. With your smartphone, e-reader, or tablet, you can store hundreds of ebooks, placing information at your fingertips. These save you the time of driving to a bookstore or lugging books with you.
  3. eBooks make it easier to become an authorWith ebooks, you can have a book written today and publish it by the following day. You don’t need to have an entire editorial team or the backing of a major book publisher. That is especially helpful if you are a new author looking to build their experience or have a limited budget.

READ AN EBOOK DAY DATES

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NATIONAL IT PROFESSIONALS DAY

Annually on the third Tuesday in September, National IT Professionals Day honors the venerable geeks of the world we all rely on to keep us connected.

The IT (information technology) professional is the unsung hero of modern business. These under-appreciated wizzes tackle the obstacles that leave the rest of us scratching our heads. Whether it be desktops, laptops, mobile devices, applications, servers, networks, databases or cybersecurity, IT professionals keep business humming. However, there is often a lack of understanding by business leaders and end-users of the important role they play and the difficulties and complexities associated with modern IT.

It’s also a great day for IT professionals to showcase their expertise. While they’re often solving computer and network issues, they also have a knack for developing and creating. Their insight into the technical universe brings numerous opportunities to individuals and businesses alike. If you tap into all their innovative knowledge, you might be surprised where it takes you.

NATIONAL IT PROFESSIONALS DAY HISTORY

Solarwinds, a provider of powerful and affordable IT management software, created National IT Professionals Day in March 2015.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE IT PRO DAY

If you’re an end-user, simply say thank you to the IT professionals that make your life easier. You can also give them a shout out on social media. 

If you’re a business leader, in addition to saying thank you, also recognize and seek out the unique insight your IT professionals can provide in today’s always-on, always-connected world to help you make smart strategic business decisions. Recognizing the value of an IT professional will lead to a greater competitive advantage. Highlight their accomplishments, too. You might discover untapped potential if you do. 

IT professionals, share why you love what you do. Encourage others interested in the field. While you celebrate the day, include other IT professions. Host competition or propose a challenge. The winners get bragging rights until next year.

Also, share #ITProDay on Social Media to increase awareness of just how important our IT professionals are.

STAR TREK DAY

Fans across the globe celebrate Star Trek Day on September 8 to remember the timeless legacy Star Trek has made on society and pop culture.

On September 8, 1966, a television series pilot known as Star Trek was introduced on American television. Aiming for an adult audience, this was the was the first time a scientific fiction series would explore morality through scientific narratives. Most movies or television shows would contain science but would often create conflict of suffering and injustice to solve problems. However, Star Trek was different. The series would put actors in the forefront making scientific arguments, while providing peaceful solutions to problems without using violence.

What was the first episode of Star Trek? In a galaxy far, far away “The Man Trap” aired as the pilot episode for Star Trek: The Original Series. Creator Gene Roddenberry’s vision to successfully deliver a storyline of intergalactic drama full of diversity, acceptance and hope became a reality on todays date. Though the series intention was to be a fictional story, Star Trek would become a futuristic franchise, showcasing humans living in harmony with space and Earth.

The Starship Enterprise

The original cast of the Star Trek series was one of the most diverse looking characters ever seen on television at the time. The main crew consisted of:

  • Ship Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner)
  • First Officer and Science Officer Spock (Leonard Nimoy)
  • Chief Medical Officer: Leonard H. “Bones” McCoy (DeForest Kelly)
  • Opening Credits Narrator: William Shatner

Space: the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before. ~ William Shatner

EARTHING CONTRIBUTIONS

For 57 years, Star Trek has been captivating audiences across the world. Now considered one of the most successful franchise, the legacy of the original series continues to greet millions of fans.

For more information visit the Star Trek Day website.

LIFT OFF

  • Watch the original Star Trek pilot series.
  • Host a Star Trek Marathon with your friends and family.
  • Dress up in your favorite Star Trek character and host a Treki party.
  • Learn Klingon (the official Star Trek language).
  • Find a Star Trek convention and attend.
  • Introduce Star Trek to a new generation.
  • Post your Star Trek moments on social media and tag #StarTrekDay.

For even more Trek Check out the series above.

NATIONAL NEW HAMPSHIRE DAY

National New Hampshire Day on September 7th recognizes the 9th state to join the Union. The Granite State epitomizes New England in many ways. From its breathtaking landscapes to its fascinating history and people.

State Symbols

State Capital – Concord
State Nickname – The Granite State
State Motto – Live free or die
State Bird – Purple Finch
State Flower – Purple lilac
State Animal – White – tailed deer
State Folk Dance –
State Fish – Brook Trout
State Dessert –
State Fossil –
State Mineral- Beryl
State Tree – White Birch
State Fruit – Pumpkin
State Song –
State Gemstone – Smokey Quartz
State Rock – Granite
State Insect – Ladybug

Quotable Quotes

If you’ve ever wondered where the phrase “not yet begun to fight” originated, just look to one of New Hampshire’s notable naval officers, John Paul Jones.

“Live Free or Die” is the state’s motto. Another revoluationary hero, John Stark earns the credit for it. In a written toast in honor of the anniversary of the Battle of Bennington, Stark’s full quote reads: “Live free or die, death is not the greatest of evils.” While he may not be the first to share the sentiment to live free or die, his toast summed up the country’s dedication to independence.

Settlers

New Hampshire’s history holds more than noble quotes. Many firsts fill its timeline. In 1719, Scotch-Irish settlers brought the first potatoes to North America. The settlers planted them in the settlement of Nutfield, now known as Londonderry.

Before Paul Revere had his famous ride, he first made another all-important journey. In 1774, Revere rode the 55 miles from Boston to Portsmouth to warn the citizens of an impending seizure of Fort William and Mary. The village stormed the fort and took control of the ammunitions before the British arrived.

Politics and More

New Hampshire became the first state to established an independent government. The state also created the first written constitution.

In 1828, when ownership changed hands at the Cocheco Manufacturing Company, the new owner reduced the wages of only the femail textile mill workers. On top of already difficult work and long days, the owners placed even stricter requirements on its employees. Frustated, on December 30th, about 400 of the female workers walked out. It became the nation’s first all female strike. The strike failed and resulted in many of the striking workers returning to work at even lower wages.

The state also holds its primaries before any other state. Early on during election time, the country focuses its attention on New Hampshire. Another phrase often attributed to New Hampshire: “As New Hampshire goes, so goes the nation.”

Known for its fall foliage, New Hampshire’s impressive colors bring visitors every autumn. From mountains to the seaside, the state offers year-round adventure.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNewHampshireDay

Celebrate New Hampshire’s historic places, panoramic scenery and captivating personalities. Explore all New Hampshire offers! Use #NationalNewHampshireDay to share on social media.

NEW HAMPSHIRE FLAVOR

With apples as the leading fruit crop in the state, it should be no surprise that the people of New Hampshire specialize in baking and cooking with them. That includes their cider donuts! Not that anyone would refuse a donut, but these taste like fall!

Apple Cider, whether spiked or not, is a special treat in New Hampshire. A hot mug of autumn’s spiced orchard produce will warm you right up!

If you need a stronger drink to warm the cockles of your heart, try New Hampshire’s honey mead which is often fermented with the season’s fresh fruits. Also called honey wine, mead may be the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage.

Being a coastal state, seafood like lobster is a top choice but don’t over look fresh water favorites like fried lake bass. With the mountain hikes to take in all the scenery in New Hampshire, it’s easy to work up an appetite to sample all this goodness!

Notable People

John Langdon – Patriot – (June 26, 1741 – September 18, 1819)

John Langdon - Patriot
John Langdon – Patriot



Daniel Webster – U.S. Senator – (January 18, 1782 – October 24, 1852)

Daniel Webster: The Man and His Time Hardcover – Illustrated, February 1, 1997

by Robert V. Remini (Author)
Daniel Webster: The Man and His Time Hardcover – Illustrated

by Robert V. Remini (Author)

Sarah Josepha Hale – Writer Poet (October 24, 1788 – April 30, 1879)

Sarah Josepha Hale
Sarah Josepha Hale



Franklin Pierce – U.S. President (November 23, 1804 – October 8, 1869)

Franklin Pierce: The American Presidents Series: The 14th President, 1853-1857 Kindle Edition

by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. (Author), & 3 more 
Franklin Pierce: The American Presidents Series: The 14th President, 1853-1857

by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. (Author), & 3 more

Horace Greeley – Journalist – (February 3, 1811 – November 29, 1872)

Horace Greeley: Print, Politics, and the Failure of American Nationhood Kindle Edition

by James M. Lundberg  (Author) 
Horace Greeley: Print, Politics, and the Failure of American Nationhood Kindle Edition

by James M. Lundberg  (Author) 


Mary Baker Eddy – Author – (July 16, 1821 – December 3, 1910)

Mary Baker Eddy (Radcliffe Biography Series) Paperback – September 24, 1999

by Gill Gillian (Author), Gillian Gill  (Author)
Mary Baker Eddy (Radcliffe Biography Series)

by Gill Gillian (Author), Gillian Gill  (Author)

H. H. Holmes – Murderer – (May 16, 1861 – May 7, 1896)

H. H. Holmes: The True History of the White City Devil Kindle Edition

by Adam Selzer  (Author)
H. H. Holmes: The True History of the White City Devil

by Adam Selzer  (Author)
American Ripper
American Ripper


Harlan Stone – Supreme Court Justice – (October 11, 1872 – April 22, 1946)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harlan_F._Stone
Harlan Stone Supreme Court Justice

Alan Shepard – Astronaut – (November 18, 1923 – July 21, 1998)

Moon Shot: The Inside Story of America's Apollo Moon Landings Kindle Edition

by Alan Shepard  (Author), Deke Slayton  (Author), Jay Barbree (Author), Neil Armstrong (Introduction), Howard Benedict (Contributor)  Format: Kindle Edition
Moon Shot: The Inside Story of America’s Apollo Moon Landings Kindle Edition

by Alan Shepard  (Author), Deke Slayton  (Author), Jay Barbree (Author), Neil Armstrong (Introduction), Howard Benedict (Contributor)  Format: Kindle Edition

NASA Video Collection: Alan Shepard - 1st US Man in Space
NASA Video Collection: Alan Shepard – 1st US Man in Space

John Irving – Author – (March 2, 1942 – )

John Irving
- Author
John Irving – Author

Mandy Moore – Actress – (April 10, 1984 -)

Mandy Moore (Real-Life Reader Biography) Library Binding – June 1, 2001

by John Bankston  (Author)
Mandy Moore (Real-Life Reader Biography)

by John Bankston  (Author)
This Is Us: Seasons 1-3 DVD 3-Pack (Complete First Second Third Season)

Mandy Moore (Actor), Milo Ventimiglia (Actor)
This Is Us: Seasons 1-3 DVD 3-Pack (Complete First Second Third Season)

Mandy Moore (Actor), Milo Ventimiglia (Actor)


Hannah Kearney – Olympian – (February 26, 1986 -)

Hannah Kearney
- Olympian
Hannah Kearney – Olympian

Hidden Treasures

Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site – Derry

Madame Sherri Forest and Castle – Chesterfield

Thompson Falls – Pinkhams Grant

Hampton Historical Society and Tuck Museum Complex – Hampton (History of the only woman convicted of witchcraft in the state of New Hampshire as well as other fascinating information.)

U.S.S. Albacore – Portsmouth

NATIONAL READ A BOOK DAY

National Read A Book Day is observed annually on September 6th.  On August 9th, we all celebrated National Book Lovers Day.  While these bookish days may seem similar, National Read a Book Day invites us ALL to grab a book we might enjoy and spend the day reading.  

Don’t keep it to yourself.  Share the experience!  Read aloud either to children or to grandparents.  Read to your pets or to your stuffed animals and plants.  

Reading improves memory and concentration as well as reduces stress. Older adults who spend time reading show a slower cognitive decline and tend to participate in more mentally stimulating activities over their lifetime.  Books are an inexpensive entertainment, educational tool and time machine too!

A Great way to enjoy reading even more are these:

Featured Books

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott – Set during the Civil War, Little Women follows the life of the March family. Loosely based on Alcott’s life, she cast herself as talented the Jo March. 

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens – David Copperfield tells the story of a young boy’s life as he struggles to become a writer. From an abusive start and many trials, the author relays the memories of his life. 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling – The 7th book in the Harry Potter series brings Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger back to Hogwarts for a final standoff with Voldemort and his Deatheaters.

Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George – This is the story of nine-year-old Miyax and her transition from an Inuit culture to an American one in San Francisco.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls – Loved by generations, this classic story tells of the bond between a boy and his dog in the Ozarks. 

The Three Muskateers by Alexander Dumas When young d’Artagnan travels to Paris to join the ranks of the Musketeers, he soon finds himself challenged to three duels with Athos, Porthos and Aramis. However, the foursome is abruptly attacked by the evil Cardinal Richelieu’s guards, and d’Artagnan fights alongside them, proving his skills with a sword and his honour. The three Musketeers enfold d’Artagnan into their ranks, and what follows is a swashbuckling tale full of intrigue, friendship and revenge.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ReadABookDay

Sit back, relax and read a book. Whether you prefer to escape into the world of fiction or learn something new, celebrate with your favorite books. Visit the library or the local book store. Pick up a new book or read an old favorite. Explore the past in history books and memoirs or dive into the mean of terrific poetry. Read aloud to a child or give them a new book. Share the stories you’re reading using #ReadABookDay to post on social media.

If you need any suggestions or just looking for something new these are some of my favorite authors.

Julia Quinn
Diana Galbaldon
Suzanne Brockmann
Sherrilyn McQueen (a.k.a  Kenyon)
Lisa Kleypas
J.M. Madden
Suzanne Enoch

James Patterson
Patricia Cornwell
David Balducci
Janet Evanovich

Steven King
John Grisham
Dean Koontz
J D Robb
Michael Connelly
Agatha Christie
Tolkien
George R. R. Martin
Harper Lee