COMPETITION IS GOOD: Barnes & Noble Aims to Take Down Kindle, by Hook or by Nook. “After weeks of rumors, speculation and leaked photos, Barnes & Noble has released official details on the Nook, its upcoming e-reader device. The Nook features wireless downloads like the Amazon Kindle, but it has a dual touchscreen interface. In price, the Nook matches the domestic Kindle at $259, and it will be available at the end of November.” I wonder if you’ll be able to buy it through Amazon . . . .

Plus this: “Another key difference: the LendMe technology that allows users to lend the books they’ve downloaded to anyone else who is using another Nook, or is using Barnes and Noble’s e-reader software on a smartphone, PC or Mac. The ‘borrowed’ books disappear after 14 days. The Nook can also access Barnes & Noble WiFi hotspots in stores for downloads and browsing.”