There are some really good public domain #eBooks out there, so I've done a simple little search page for finding them:
https://switching.social/public-domain-ebooks-search/
Give it a go if you're a fan of classic #literature or #historical #texts.
Feedback welcome.
You can see the list of sources on the search results page, let me know if there's a source you think should be added.
I've tried to focus on books, especially literature, rather than academic papers or general archives.
@switchingsocial You may want to add links to these two, the projects are connected, you can both get kindle books and audio books
Both cool sites, both already listed on the "Alternatives to Amazon" page 👍
https://switching.social/ethical-alternatives-to-amazon-and-goodreads/
Gutenberg is also in the search tool along with most of the public domain ebook sites.
I wanted to add Librivox to the search too but couldn't because its pages have no descriptions in the titles (searching for them produces a big list of results each called "Librivox"). I've emailed them to ask if they could add descriptions to their page titles.
@switchingsocial What are the requirements for being an ethical alterntive to amazon?
There's no specific rules, but generally providing similar services with fewer bad effects on the world.
It's easier to decide when looking at specific examples.
@switchingsocial I work at Scribd. I'd like to say that yay we're an ethical alternative! But, we're not DRM-free. But we're *also* not a monolith devouring all industry and employing slave labor.
But then B&N would also count. Shakespeare & Co would count b/c their print on site model reduces shipping/gas/paper waste.
Really good points!
I don't know much about Scribd (a Netflix for books sounds cool!) but like you say it gets difficult because the page could turn into a huge list of bookshops.
It's sort of already bending the rules by including an "Alternatives to Amazon" page as switching.social is mainly focused on protecting privacy.
I guess main requirement for an alternative is that it's less likely to become as bad as that which it replaces. e.g. If there's no DRM, there's no lock-in.
@switchingsocial it is basically Netflix for books, and the same rules apply. You're buying access to the catalog, and you lose access when the catalog changes. We don't sell books in the same way Netflix doesn't sell the shows
It sounds like a cool service :)
@switchingsocial Do you list Libro.fm? It's an Audible replacement. No DRM and you can choose a local bookstore to support with your subscription.
Thanks, I'll take a look!
Thanks again, I've added it to the list:
https://switching.social/ethical-alternatives-to-amazon-and-goodreads/
@switchingsocial Wow, this is great. Thanks for posting. I've bookmarked your link.