3. Less Functionality For Work or Play

While at least one of my colleagues has argued that the Kindle would be a , especially for those in the medical profession, most doctors and nurses don't need a library of 3,500 books. They want an open system where they can locate patient records or inventory. That will likely only happen with a computer, tablet or otherwise.

4. E-books Are Not More Eco-friendly Than Paper Books

A says that a traditional book has less of an impact on the environment than an e-reader. As long as the owner of a Kindle reads at least 23 books, he or she is out of the red for CO2 emissions.

However, electronic components require mining of nonrenewable minerals, often in unstable countries, and then there's the question of . E-waste is often sent to developing countries where hazardous materials are often broken up by hand and incinerated, releasing toxins into the air. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control , including laptops, LCD monitors, and plasma TVs were shown to exceed safe limits in copper, mercury and lead. A greener bet? Use your local library.