is scribd a reliable source for research paper

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Check Your Sources: A Checklist for Validating Academic Information

A virtual flood of information is available with just a few clicks, but it is important to remember that abundance does not mean quality. There are plenty of inaccurate articles and misinformation online, making it crucial to fully understand how to discern the credibility of sources. Although the ability to validate information is always important, it is especially vital for students as they pursue information for academic research and papers.

This article provides a comprehensive checklist that can help you weed out bad information and find reliable and accurate sources for your academic writing and research endeavors.

Why Credibility Matters in Academic Research

It is easy to understand why credibility matters; after all, it is the cornerstone of academic research. The implications of being credible, however, extend beyond grades and academia.

Reliable sources lend weight to arguments, ensuring they stand up to scrutiny. Conversely, unreliable sources can introduce errors into a field of study, leading to flawed conclusions. This type of situation can affect the integrity of the broader knowledge base and adversely affect the researcher's reputation.

A Checklist for Validating Academic Information

As information continues to proliferate, the ability to distinguish credible from questionable becomes increasingly important. This checklist offers a structured approach to ensure your research is grounded in authoritative and relevant sources, bolstering the integrity of your work.

1. Identify Who Provided the Information

The credibility of information often hinges on the expertise and reputation of its provider.

Author credentials: A source's reliability often heavily relies on the expertise of its author. When looking at sources, check the author’s academic background and look for additional publications credited to them.

Institutional affiliation: Reputable institutions typically adhere to rigorous publication standards. If a source comes from a recognized university or research body, it's likely undergone thorough review. This is not foolproof, but it serves as a green flag for the reliability of the source.

Peer review: In academia, peer review is the gold standard. It means other experts in the field have examined and approved the content. You can usually find this information in the editorial guidelines for the journal or website that published the content.

2. Acknowledge Any Potential Bias

Every piece of information carries a perspective, so it is crucial to discern its objectivity before using it as a source.

Objective vs. subjective: While no source is entirely free from bias, it is vital to distinguish between objective research and opinion pieces. The former is based on empirical evidence, while the latter reflects personal viewpoints.

Funding sources: Research funded by organizations with vested interests might be skewed. Always check the acknowledgments or disclosure section.

Affiliations: Authors affiliated with certain groups might have inherent biases. It does not invalidate their work, but you should be aware of it so you can determine if the information is credible or overly biased.

3. Identify Claims Made Without Proper Data

Valid academic claims are rooted in evidence, making it essential to scrutinize the data backing them.

Evidence-based claims: In academic research, claims should be backed by data. If a source makes broad assertions without evidence, approach it with caution.

Transparent methodology: A credible source will detail its methodology, allowing others to replicate the study or understand its basis.

Unsupported statements: Be wary of sweeping claims that do not reference other studies or data. This is a red flag that indicates the information may not be credible.

4. Check the Purpose of the Information

Understanding the intent behind a source helps in assessing its relevance and potential bias.

Informative vs. persuasive: Is the source aiming to inform based on evidence, or is it trying to persuade? Both can be valid, but it is essential to know the difference and decide if the information is usable on a case-by-case basis.

Primary vs. secondary sources: Primary sources offer direct evidence or firsthand testimony. Secondary sources analyze or interpret primary sources. While both types of sources can be credible, you should still understand and distinguish between them.

Audience and conflicts: Consider who the intended audience is because this can shape the type of information being shared. A paper written for industry professionals might have a different tone and depth than one written for general readers.

5. Check Publication Dates

The age of a source can influence its relevance and applicability to current research in several key ways.

Relevance and recency: In quickly evolving fields, recent publications are crucial, as they reflect the latest findings and consensus. However, this does not mean older sources are obsolete. They can offer foundational knowledge or a historical perspective. It is just important to be aware of the dates associated with all information you plan on using.

Historical context: When citing older sources, it is essential to understand their context. How has the field evolved since then? Are the findings still relevant and accurate, or has newer research superseded them?

Topic evolution: Using older sources can provide unique insight. Tracking the progression of thought on a subject can provide depth to your research, showing how current perspectives were shaped.

6. Assess the Source's Reputation

A source's standing in the academic community can be a strong indicator of its reliability.

Citations: If a source is frequently cited in other works, it is a positive indication — but not a fool-proof test. The reputation and authority of where the citation occurs can also reflect on its credibility.

Retractions/corrections: Check if the source has any associated retractions or corrections. This might indicate issues with the content but may also indicate dedication to sharing accurate information.

7. Verify Citations and References

Reliable academic work builds upon previous research, making citations a key component of credibility.

Backed claims: Ensure that the source's claims are supported by credible references. These should be easy to find, easy to access, and not outdated.

Authenticity of citations: Check the original studies or data cited to ensure they have been represented accurately. You should never rely on a source’s representation of facts but rather check them against the originating source.

Self-citation: While authors will sometimes cite their previous work, excessive self-citation can be a red flag.

Additional Tips on How to Know if a Source Is Credible

Consult experts: If you are unsure about a source, reach out to experts or professors in the field. Their experience can provide insights into the source's reliability.

Check for comprehensive coverage: Reliable sources often cover topics in depth, addressing multiple facets of an issue rather than presenting a one-sided view.

Examine the writing style: Credible sources typically maintain a professional tone, avoiding sensationalism or overly emotional language. Spelling and grammar errors are a red flag.

Look for transparency: Trustworthy sources are transparent about their research methods, data collection, and any potential conflicts of interest.

In academic writing, the strength of your work is deeply rooted in the credibility of your sources. By carefully evaluating your sources, you can ensure that you're presenting accurate information that stands up to scrutiny. This process starts with systematically validating the information you find for bias, outdated information, unsupported claims, and many other criteria. In the end, however, it is your discernment that keeps unscrupulous information from ending up in your research. 

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Scribd: A Comprehensive Guide to Research and Education Excellence

Scribd –  Websites where you can upload your research papers

In the vast landscape of digital platforms, Scribd stands out as a beacon for researchers, educators, and knowledge enthusiasts. This article delves into the intricacies of Scribd, exploring its role in the research and education industry, shedding light on the process of publishing research papers, accessing valuable content, and understanding the platform’s copyright policies.

Scribd: A Gateway to Research Excellence

Scribd, founded in 2007, has evolved into a dynamic platform that transcends traditional boundaries in the dissemination of knowledge. Positioned as a comprehensive digital library, it offers a vast repository of documents, books, audiobooks, and research papers. Researchers and educators find Scribd to be an invaluable resource for accessing a wide array of scholarly content.

Website Content: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

The Scribd platform boasts an extensive collection of research papers spanning diverse disciplines. From humanities to sciences, users can explore an unparalleled range of academic material. The intuitive interface ensures easy navigation, allowing researchers to swiftly locate relevant content.

Publishing Research Papers on Scribd

Submission and review process.

Scribd provides a streamlined process for researchers to publish their work. Upon submission, manuscripts undergo a rigorous review by a panel of experts in the respective field. This ensures the quality and credibility of the content hosted on the platform.

Aspiring authors can follow a user-friendly submission process, providing necessary details and uploading their research papers. The platform’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its thorough review process, maintaining high standards for published material.

Access and Copyright Policies

Open access to knowledge.

One of Scribd’s key strengths lies in its commitment to open access. Researchers and students can access a significant portion of the content without subscription fees. This democratization of knowledge fosters a global community of learners and scholars.

Copyright Policies: Balancing Protection and Accessibility

Scribd acknowledges the importance of protecting intellectual property rights. Authors retain copyright to their work, granting Scribd a license to host and distribute the content. This balanced approach ensures that creators are recognized for their contributions while allowing for widespread dissemination.

Content Curation and Categories

Curating quality content.

Scribd employs a meticulous curation process to maintain the highest standards of content quality. The platform’s team of curators works diligently to sift through submissions, ensuring that only the most valuable and relevant research papers make it to the public domain.

Diverse Categories for Comprehensive Learning

The diversity of content on Scribd is a testament to its commitment to catering to a broad audience. Categories range from traditional academic disciplines to emerging fields, fostering interdisciplinary exploration. Whether one seeks research in astrophysics or social sciences, Scribd provides a platform for holistic learning.

Navigating Scribd: Tips for Optimal Utilization

Advanced search techniques.

To harness the full potential of Scribd, users can employ advanced search techniques. Utilizing filters such as publication date, author, and keywords allows for precise content discovery, saving time and enhancing the overall user experience.

Collaborative Research Spaces

Scribd recognizes the importance of collaboration in the research and education landscape. The platform facilitates the creation of collaborative spaces where researchers can share insights, engage in discussions, and collectively contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

Scribd: Empowering the Future of Research and Education

In conclusion, Scribd emerges as a dynamic force in the research and education industry, providing a platform for the seamless exchange of knowledge. From its robust submission and review process to its commitment to open access, Scribd stands as a beacon of excellence in the digital age.

Call to Action: Join the Scribd Community Today

Aspiring researchers, educators, and knowledge enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the vast realm of Scribd. By joining this dynamic community, individuals contribute to the global pool of knowledge and elevate the standards of research and education. Embrace the power of Scribd and embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

Scribd, with its unwavering commitment to excellence, is not just a platform; it’s a catalyst for the future of research and education. Explore, engage, and elevate your scholarly pursuits with Scribd.

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Researching and Writing a Paper: Reliability of Sources

• Outline Note-Taking
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• Videos about Evaluating Sources!
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• Formatting your paper!

Techniques for Evaluating Resources

No matter how good the database you search in is, or how reliable an information website has been in the past, you need to evaluate the sources you want to use for credibility and bias before you use them*. (You may also want to spot fake news as you browse the Internet or other media - not all fake news is online).

This page discusses eight different tools for evaluating sources (there are so many different tools because evaluating the reliability or quality of information is an important topic, because there are many ways to look at the topic, and every librarian wants to help you succeed). Look through these approaches and use the approaches or combinations of approaches that work for you. The tools are:

5Ws (and an H)

A.S.P.E.C.T.

• Evaluating Research Articles
• Lateral Reading  ("what do other sources say?")

The CRAAP Test

We also have a variety of videos about evaluating sources available for your learning and entertainment: Click Here !

* Note: a biased source - and technically most sources are biased - can be a useful source as long as you understand what the bias or biases are. A source that is trying to be reliable will often identify some or all of its biases. (Every person has a limited perspective on the events they observe or participate in, and most of the time their perceptions are influenced by assumptions they may not be aware of. So, even when you have some really solid reasons to trust a source as 100% reliable and accurate, be alert for 'what is not mentioned' and for what biases there might be [this is particularly tricky when you share those biases, and why reviewing your research/paper/presentation with someone else is always a good idea]).

The 5Ws and an H.

Back to the top of the page

• Who are the authors or creators?
• What are their credentials? Can you find something out about them in another place?
• Who is the publisher or sponsor?
• Are they reputable?
• What is the publisher’s interest (if any) in this information?
• If it's from a website, does it have advertisements?
• Is this fact or opinion?
• Is it biased? Can you still use the information, even if you know there is bias?
• Is the the site trying to sell you something, convert you to something, or make you vote for someone?
• What kind of information is included in the resource?
• Is content of the resource primarily opinion? Is is balanced?
• Is it provided for a hobbiest, for entertainment, or for a serious audience?
• Does the creator provide references or sources for data or quotations?
• How recent is the information?
• Is it current enough for your topic?
• If the information is from a website, when was the site last updated?

Authority Information resources are a product of their creator's expertise and reliability, and are evaluated based on the information need and the context in which the information will be used. Authority is constructed: various communities often recognize different types of authority (knowledge, accuracy). Authority is contextual because you may need additional information to help determine the accuracy or comprehensiveness, and the sort of authority the source contains. (Writing a paper about ' urban myths ' requires different sorts of authority than writing a paper disproving an urban myth.)

Using this concept means you have to identify the different types of authority that might be relevant, and why the author considers themselves reliable, as well as why their community considers them reliable. An author can be a person, journalist, scholar, organization, website, etc. Author is different from authority, authority is the quality that gives an author trustworthiness....and not all authors have the same trustworthiness.

Evaluating research articles

Evaluating research articles: Evaluating evidence-based research articles in scholarly journals requires deep knowledge of the discipline, which you might not acquire until you are deeper into your education. These guiding questions can help you evaluate a research report, even if you are not an expert in the field. Questions include:

• Why was the study undertaken? The aim of the research may be intended to generate income, lobby for policy changes, evaluate the impact of a program, or create a new theory.  These variations in intent influence the research questions, the data collection, the analysis, and how the results are presented. To make best use of the findings for your purposes, you should keep the intent of the study in mind.
• Who conducted the study? It is important to look at who conducted the research, and if the organization or individual in question has the expertise required for conducting research on the topic. Looking to see if the organization is interested in a specific research outcome is also a good practice. The research should be clear about how the different stages of the study were conducted to guarantee its objectivity.
• Who funded the research? It is equally important to look at who sponsored or funded the study because this sometimes affects the objectivity or accuracy of the study. (If, for example, a soap-maker sponsors a study on the efficiency of different soaps, you should be critical of the results, particularly if their brand of soap is the best at cleaning.)
• How was the data collected? In the social sciences, structured interviews and self-completion questionnaires are perhaps the two most common ways of collecting quantitative data. How the people in the study were recruited is essential for determining how representative the results are. (There are two main types of samples, probability and non-probability samples. A probability sample is one in which every individual in the population has the same chance of being included in the study. It is also a prerequisite for being able to generalize the findings to the population. Pretend you survey first-year students by asking student clubs to share the survey on their social media. This non-probability snowball sample is more likely to reach students active in the clubs, therefore the results will not be representative of, or generalizable to, all students.)
• Is the sample size and response rate sufficient? The bigger the sample size the greater the chance that the results are accurate. After a sample size of around 1000, gains in accuracy become less significant. However, limited time and money often make such a large sample not practical. The similarity of the population also affects the desired sample size; a more diverse population requires a larger sample to sufficiently include the different parts of the population. The response rate is a complementary measure to the sample size, showing how many of the suitable individuals in the sample have provided a usable response. (In web surveys, response rates tend to be lower than in other types of surveys, and are therefore less accurate.)
• Does the research make use of secondary data? Data can be collected for the purposes of the study or existing data gathered for a different study can be used. If existing data sets collected for another study are used, reflecting on how usable that data is for the newer study is important.
• Does the research measure what it claims to measure? A commonly used word in statistics to describe the trustworthiness of research is ‘validity’. Validity refers to the extent to which an assumption or measurement is consistent with reality. Does it measure what it intends to measure? For example, a study investigates gender discrimination of faculty and looks at the number of cases of discrimination presented by female faculty. But, if the study does not look at the reason for these discrimination complaints (gender, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, etc.) it cannot be assumed that gender discrimination either increased or decreased.
• Can the findings be generalized to my situation? There is often a tendency to generalize research findings. Two key standards have to be met to do this. First, results apply only to the population of the study. Second, data must be collected via a probability sample, i.e. everyone eligible to be in the study has the same chance of being included in the study. Too often papers do not discuss many of the aspects of the data collection and analysis. Transparently and clearly describing how the research was conducted is essential for the reader to understand the trustworthiness of the research paper in their hands.

Lateral Reading

The Internet has democratized access to information, but the Internet has also been filled with a flood of misinformation, fake news, propaganda, and idiocy, presented as objective analysis. Since any single source is suspect, fact checkers read laterally.  They leave a site in its tab after a quick look around and open up new browser tabs in order to judge the credibility of the original site.

Lateral reading is the process of verifying what you are reading while you are reading it. It allows you to read deeply and broadly while gaining a fuller understanding of an issue or topic and determining whether, or how much, to trust the content as presented.

Vertical reading occurs when the reader simply reads the article or site without going further, assuming that if it ‘looks reliable’ it is reliable. The reader may use some superficial evaluation strategies to determine if the site is credible, such as reading the ‘about’ page, looking at its URL extension (.edu, .org, .com, .gov, etc.), or assessing its advertising. A good start, but there is much more to look at:

• Determine the author's reliability, intents, and biases, by searching for articles by other writers on the same topic (and also looking for other articles by that same author).
• Understand the perspective of the site's analyses. (What are they assuming, what do they want you to assume?)
• Determine whether the site has an editorial process or expert reputation supporting the reliability and accuracy of its content.

Use the strategies and ask the questions that professional fact-checkers use:

• Go beyond the "about" page of the site you are reading.
• Search for articles by other writers on the same topic.
• Search for articles about the site/publication you are reading (and/or articles about the authors featured on the site).

Ask the following:

• Who funds or sponsors the site where the original piece was published? (And who funds/sponsors the site you found the article at?) 
• What do other authoritative sources have to say about that site and that topic?
• When you do a search on the topic of the original piece, are the initial results from fact-checking organizations? (If so, what do they say?)
• Have questions been raised about other articles the author has written or that have appeared on that site?
• Does what you are finding elsewhere contradict the original piece? (If there are contradictions, what is the reliability of those contradicting sites?)

Are reliable news outlets reporting on (or perhaps more important, not reporting on) what you are reading? (Does why reliable news outlets are or are-not reporting on the topic increase or decrease the reliability of the site you are assessing?)

Sometimes the 'good answer' to the above questions is a 'yes', sometimes a 'no', and sometimes 'it's complicated'. Reliable and unreliable sources are everywhere in the information we have access to - some sources are rarely reliable, but even the most 'consistently reliable sources' are sometimes unreliable (everyone has blind spots and biases, and everyone is able to make mistakes). There are no consistent rules for which questions must be answered which way. However, if you ask these questions and find out what the answers seem to be you will have a better understanding of how reliable or unreliable a particular source is.

S.I.F.T. Method

SIFT (The Four Moves)

Use the SIFT method to separate fact from fake when reading websites and other media.

• What is its reputation?
• For deeper research, verify the information.
• Know what you're reading.
• Where is it from? Biases, point of view?
• Understand the context of the information.
• Find the best source on the subject.
• Trace claims, quotes or media back to its original context.
• Was the source you read/viewed an accurate depiction of the original?

More Information about the SIFT method , and a free 3-hour online course (five easy lessons) that will seriously improve your information evaluation skills!

!!! Do you have questions, confusions, or opinons about anything on this page, in this LibGuide, or anything else?      We are happy to Listen to and Answer Your Questions, Concerns, and more ! !!!

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A publication of the harvard college writing program.

Harvard Guide to Using Sources 

• The Honor Code
• Evaluating Sources

From the many volumes and electronic resources that you have access to through the Harvard library system to the many resources available on the Web, finding information has never been easier. But at times, the sheer volume of information available to you can be overwhelming: How will you know which sources to rely on? How will you decide which sources are appropriate for a particular assignment? How can you determine if the data on a website is trustworthy? What's the difference between what a peer-reviewed journal offers and what a website like Wikipedia offers ?

Although the most useful sources for a given assignment will depend on the assignment itself, as well as on the kinds of sources generally relied upon in your field of study, there are some universal rules that will help you decide whether to use a source. Once you determine whether a source is worth looking at, you'll still need to figure out what you will do with it in your paper ,  how to cite the information and ideas you draw from it, and how to avoid plagiarism . When you write for an academic audience, you are responsible for making sure that any information you provide and any ideas you cite come from sources that are both reliable and appropriate for your assignment. The most reliable sources are those that have been vetted by scholars in the field—articles published in peer-reviewed journals and books published by academic publishers.

No matter what you're working on, keep in mind that not all sources are appropriate for your project; just because someone has written something down doesn't mean it is a reliable source. Before you decide to rely on a source, you should evaluate the source and decide whether it is appropriate to use in your paper. You should always determine the qualifications of the author, the purpose of the source (that is, in what context it was created), the scope of the source (what it covers and in what depth), and, where relevant, the currency of the source.

• Locating Sources
• Evaluating Journal Articles
• Evaluating Web Sources
• Evaluating Online Media Content
• What’s Wrong with Wikipedia?
• Making Decisions Based on Your Discipline
• Integrating Sources

PDFs for This Section

• Using sources
• Online Library and Citation Tools

Scribd with Everand review: the popular ebook and audiobook subscription service gets a revamp

Fully overhauled and rebranded, scribd now offers stiffer competition for kindle and kobo alternatives.

TechRadar Verdict

Everand is the new name for what was Scribd, an ebook and audiobook subscription service that also got you access to a plethora of magazines, podcasts, documents, sheet music and slide decks. While Scribd still exists as a platform for documents like research papers and court filings, all the ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, podcasts and sheet music have been moved to Everand. The library is now more extensive than before, with exclusive titles also available from bestselling authors. Furthermore, one subscription gets you full access to three platforms – Everand, Scribd and SlideShare.

Extensive library

Easy to use interface

Plenty of audiobooks

Limited ebooks

No native ereader integration

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• Should I subscribe?

Also consider

• Original Scribd review date: February 2022 • Rebranded in November 2023 • Launch subscription price: $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.99 • Current price: $11.99 / £10.99 / AU$14.99

Updated: February 2024. Scribd, when it originally launched, was a subscription hub for ebooks, audiobooks, podcasts, magazines, sheet music, various documents, slides and even the odd recipe. The platform has undergone a full overhaul, however, and has been broken into three different services. Everand is now the app for ebooks, audiobooks, podcasts, magazines and sheet music. Scribd is exclusively for documents – so whitepapers, court filings, some scientific research, recipes, etc. All the presentations have been moved to SlideShare. The three platforms are still owned and run by Scribd Inc and you need only one subscription to access all three. The monthly subscription has gone up in the US and UK, but remains unchanged for Australia, and the extensive Everand library makes it worthwhile. In lieu of this overhaul, we’ve redone our original review, concentrating on Everand, but also touching upon Scribd and SlideShare too.

Scribd with Everand: One-minute review

Scribd began life as a document-sharing platform in 2007, but it grew from there to become an ebook and audiobook subscription service to rival Kindle Unlimited and Kobo Plus . In November 2023, however, the platform underwent a full overhaul, and parent company Scribd Inc separated the mainstream offerings like ebook and audiobooks from the documents and presentations that littered the service. The original Scribd has now been divided into three new platforms – Everand housing all the ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, podcasts and sheet music, Scribd is now the home for documents only (think whitepapers, court filings, etc), and all the presentations have moved to SlideShare.

The good news is that the one subscription gets you access to all three, and the price in some regions is still the same as before. For this review, I’ve concentrated on the mainstream Everand service, but it all works exactly as it did previously.

As before, there’s quite a decent library of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, podcasts and sheet music on Everand, with the app looking pretty much the same as the original Scribd. The only difference is some minor changes to the color schemes to differentiate between the three divisions of the old Scribd platform.

Compared to Kindle Unlimited and Kobo Plus, Everand has a more extensive selection of titles in its library but only if you take both ebooks and audiobooks into consideration. However, as with Scribd previously, there’s still more audiobooks than ebooks on the platform, although the number of titles has increased significantly compared to what I saw when I first reviewed it in 2022. 

The headline here is the addition of Originals on Everand – titles written exclusively for Scribd Inc by some well-known authors like Magaret Atwood and Stephen King.

While Kindle Unlimited offers magazines to its US subscribers, other markets aren’t able to access those, and Everand can fill the void. However, the number of magazines is limited compared to what you’ll find on Readly . And while podcasts are a great addition to Everand (something you won’t find on Kindle Unlimited or Kobo Plus), several are available for free on other platforms. Still, they add value to the subscription.

There’s no native ereader integration with the Everand app, but you can use it on a desktop or a handheld device like your phone or tablet – apps are available for Apple and Android users. Owners of Onyx Boox ereaders – which run on Android and give you access to the Google Play Store – can download it for use on e-ink slates like the Onyx Boox Tab Mini C or Onyx Boox Page .

Scribd with Everand review: price and availability

• More expensive than Kindle Unlimited in some markets
• Monthly subscription of $11.99 / £10.99 / AU$14.99
• 30-day free trial

A monthly subscription to any of Scribd Inc’s apps – Everand, Scribd or SlideShare – will cost you $11.99 / £10.99 / AU$14.99. That’s a touch more expensive than Kindle Unlimited in the US and UK, but costs the same in Australia. 

Signing up for only Everand gets you access to the other two, or vice versa, adding value to the subscription if you’re a student or researcher, but the variety in the Everand library alone makes it better value than either Kindle Unlimited or Kobo Plus, but this is only if you take full advantage of both ebooks and audiobooks.

That said, if you already use an Amazon Kindle or Kobo ereader, you might be better off with the ebook subscription service associated with your chosen brand if you want to read on the device.

You can subscribe to Everand from anywhere in the world – you’ll just have to pay the equivalent of the US pricing if your country doesn’t have an official version of the site or application. Plus there’s a 30-day free trial available to test the waters before you commit to paying for the service when you sign up via either Everand or Scribd. Strangely, SlideShare offers a 60-day free trial, which might be the better option to test the waters for longer.

Scribd with Everand review: Content library

• Lots of audiobooks
• Limited ebooks compared to audiobooks
• Decent collection of magazines and podcasts

Like I mentioned at the start of this review, there’s a lot on Everand. As versatile as it looks on paper, the individual libraries of each type of content is limited, although I found far more titles I’d like to read and listen to on Everand than I did on Kindle Unlimited and Kobo Plus.

Let’s start with ebooks. While there’s a lot here to keep you occupied for a very long time, you could be disappointed if you’re looking for something specific. A couple of missing examples I found were David Graeber’s The Dawn of Everything and Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn Trilogy. Fans of Brandon Sanderson, though, will be glad to know that several of his other titles are available on Everand, including his “secret project” books from his Kickstarter campaign.

What’s interesting about Everand, though, are the original titles. Started in 2019, the Scribd Originals program (called so they came into being before Everand was launched as a separate platform) was a way for authors to reach new audiences, but these are written exclusively by some well known writers like Magaret Atwood, Stephen King, Paul Theroux and Simon Winchester. Most of these are short stories or essays, and several are in audiobook format, but there are some very interesting titles amongst the Scribd Originals, none of which you’ll find anywhere else.

The number of audiobooks on Everand is much more impressive than its ebook collection, just as it was when it was still called Scribd. Some titles that don’t have the ebook versions on Scribd can be found in audiobook format instead. For example, Neil Price’s Children of Ash and Elm and Mary Beard’s SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome are only available as audiobooks. Another example of the deficit of ebook titles is Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen series – all 10 are available as audiobooks but none as an ebook. It's the same with Martha Wells' Murderbot Diaries too – the first seven are available in audiobook format only. 

Some of these missing ebook titles used to be available as user-uploaded documents in PDF format – likely from questionable sources – on the original platform, but those are no longer on Everand, having moved to the new Scribd.

When it comes to magazines and newspapers, you’re not going to get as extensive a collection as on Readly, but there are some very good options on Everand, like Time, Marie Claire and National Geographic. There are some obvious big names missing too, like Reader’s Digest and Cosmopolitan, although you can find a few individual articles from the missing mags. Despite the missing titles, the magazine stand does cover several genres including news and current affairs, tech, and lifestyle, with the News Rack including access to The Guardian, NPR, The Independent and Futurity. Some of TechRadar’s sister magazines can be found on Everand, including Kiplinger, Digital Camera World, Classic Rock, T3 and APC.

There’s a pretty decent collection of podcasts across several genres as well, like Grounded with Louis Theroux , Day X , Revisionist History and Criminal . Practically every one I searched for, I found on Everand, however they’re also available for free on Apple and Google Podcast services.

I’m not certain what sheet music is doing on Everand – I think it should be on Scribd with other documents – but if you’re a keen musician, you could strike gold and that alone might be worth the subscription cost for you. There’s a lot of sheet music, from Disney songs to Broadway, Mozart to Frank Sinatra, even Beyonce, Adele and Taylor Swift.

Scribd content library

With all the mainstream items now on Everand, Scribd has gone back to being what it started out as – a repository of user-uploaded content, specifically documents like whitepapers, some research papers, court filings and the like. 

The documents are categorized into several genres, including wellness, technology, business, religion and politics, and their usefulness will depend on what precisely you’re after. Each document can be rated by the user with a thumbs up or a thumbs down, and this becomes important when you’re looking for authenticity on a platform that can have some dodgy content from questionable sources.

Most of the content on the new Scribd document platform, however, is good and could be useful depending on the subject. I found books on metabolism that were interesting, plus something on modern sewer designs that I never thought would hold me attention for longer than a minute. There are textbooks and test papers, even court filings against Donald Trump.

And, as I’ve already mentioned, you don’t pay extra to access Scribd – it’s included in the Everand subscription. Any document you save via Scribd is added to a common saved list that’s accessible via any of the three apps, but if you select a document via the Everand app, you will be redirected to the Scribd app. So if you do use all the Scribd Inc apps, you will need to download them all on your preferred device. If you only use the web browser option, then they open in a new tab.

SlideShare content library

As with Scribd, SlideShare is also niche, now home to the presentations that were previously uploaded to the original Scribd platform. There are a wide range of slide shows and decks to choose from, including business templates, guides to social media platforms, case studies in education and a heck of a lot more.

You can download an entire presentation if you need it offline, or you can choose specific slides from a deck to download. The uploader’s username is displayed against each presentation, plus the number of slides in each, how many views they’ve had and how long they’ve been available on SlideShare.

The presentations aren’t editable, although it might be possible to find the odd template that might allow you to do so after downloading for offline access.

Interestingly, when viewing SlideShare on a web browser, it gives you the option of signing up to all three apps to get a 60-day free trail, which doesn’t seem to be available via the other two. So if you really are keen to try Everand, it might be a good option to sign up via SlideShare.

Scribd with Everand review: user experience

• Mobile apps are easy to use
• Clunky browser interface
• Formatting issues on some ebooks

Everand, Scribd and SlideShare can be used on a desktop browser, on a phone or a tablet, with apps available for both Apple and Android operating systems . Signing up is easy and there’s a 30-day free trial for you to road test the service before you need to cough up the monthly fee (60 days if you sign up via SlideShare).

Apps for all three on any platform are identical, so I’ll stick to Everand for the sake of this review. Using the app on mobile or tablet is quite easy and intuitive, with browsing the library made easy thanks to sections for different genres and categories. The different content types are neatly arranged on the top of the app and there’s even curated lists for anyone keen to find a new story to get lost in. 

When you find something you want to read or listen to, you just have to save it by tapping on the bookmark icon. You can even download items for offline reading or listening and, in theory, there’s no limit to how many you can download at a time. I didn’t go beyond downloading five items at a time, but I have seen some users complain that Scribd Inc throttles how much you can download in one go.

Audiobook quality – based on the titles I listened to – is great, but if your device goes to sleep due to inactivity, the narration will stop unless you use the app’s sleep timer functionality (the crescent moon icon). Audiobooks require the screen to be on at all times for it to work nonstop.

Ebook quality, for the most part, is great but I did find some that had formatting issues – not the kind you’d expect from a page trying to automatically adjust to screen sizes. I found a number of them with just one word on a line or large chunks of empty space after a paragraph (with the next one starting on the subsequent page).

Note that the Everand app itself doesn’t have a dark mode option, but if your device settings is selected for dark mode, then all content will appear on a black background with white text.

Reading magazines is a mixed-bag experience – none of the covers can be viewed full-screen and you can only read one article at a time, no scrolling through the whole issue here. That said, each article is nicely formatted, with any accompanying imagery placed very well to avoid weird line and page breaks, no matter what screen size you’re viewing it on.

The browser experience, however, isn’t as great as on mobile or tablet. The interface is easy to navigate, yes, but it’s just too clunky to be a smooth experience. That said, we reckon most users would prefer to read (or listen) on a handheld device, so the online interface shouldn’t really be too much of an issue.

The one drawback that could be a deal breaker for some potential subscribers is the lack of ereader support. If you already own a Kindle, then Amazon’s ebook/audiobook subscription service will be a lot more convenient for you. It’s a similar case with Kobo users – where Kobo Plus is available, that would seem like a better option. 

However, as I’ve mentioned earlier, Onyx Boox ereaders with access to the Google Play Store will be able to open the Android version of the Everand app so you can read (or listen) on an ereader. Scribd Inc will probably have to go through licensing red tape to partner with some of the best ereader brands out there, but if that can be wrangled, then Everand might have a fighting chance to compete with Kindle Unlimited in terms of popularity.

Should I subscribe to Scribd with Everand?

Whether you should subscribe to Everand (or Scribd and SlideShare) is not an easy question to answer. If you’re an avid reader and don’t already subscribe to an ebook/audiobook subscription service, then Everand might be worth considering, particularly if you primarily do your digital reading on a phone or tablet. Considering you get access to a very diverse range of content types could just make that subscription price worth it.

In fact, it’s great for audiobook lovers who don’t already have an Audible subscription (which is cheaper in some markets but more expensive in others), considering there’s more audio titles than ebooks. 

Having access to magazines and podcasts on the same platform is great too, but Readly has a better magazine collection (if that is your area of interest), and the podcasts can be found on other platforms for free, so it’s up to you to decide if they add value to your subscription cost.

If ebooks and audiobooks are your main goals, then at the time of writing, Kindle Unlimited has an extensive library of ebooks and offers you the convenience of reading on a Kindle device or on the Kindle app. You’ll also need to remember Everand won’t get new releases on its platform on day one.

Unlike any other subscription service of this kind, however, your Everand membership gets you some exclusive content in the form of the Scribd Originals, but there aren’t too many of these, but it’s possible this might grow. And if you take into account both ebooks and audiobooks, then the Everand library is arguably the best, but only if you enjoy both reading and listening to stories.

Subscribe if...

You want a diverse range of content

If you’re an avid reader and don’t already subscribe to an ebook/audiobook subscription service, then Scribd might be worth considering, particularly if you primarily do your digital reading on a phone or tablet. Considering you get access to a very diverse range of content types – ebooks, audiobooks, podcasts, magazines and more – could just make that subscription price worth it.

You love listening to audiobooks

If you don't already have an Audible subscription (which is cheaper in some markets but more expensive in others), Scribd could be a great alternative as it's got far more audiobooks on its platform than ebooks.

Don't subscribe if...

You're a Kindle user

If you are planning on signing up for an ebook/audiobook service and already use a Kindle (either the ereaders themselves or the app), your money might be better spent on Kindle Unlimited. The library is far more extensive (for the same cost) and chances are high you'll get access to new releases long before they arrive on Scribd.

You love reading magazines

Having access to magazines and podcasts on the same platform is great, but Readly has a better magazine collection (if that is your primary area of interest) for a lower monthly fee, and the podcasts can be found on other platforms for free. So it’s up to you to decide if they add value to your Scribd subscription cost.

You prefer to do your reading on an ereader

Anyone who prefers to read on the glare-free, page-like screen of an ereader will be disappointed with a Scribd subscription as there's currently no ereader integration.

Amazon Kindle Unlimited

If you already use a Kindle ereader and are keen on an ebook subscription service, then Kindle Unlimited is your best bet. You can, of course, use it on your phone or tablet, but it is obviously best suited for anyone already embedded into Amazon’s ecosystem. There are some audiobook versions of the ebooks already available on the platform, but in comparison, Everand has more. Alternatively, if audiobooks are what you’re after, Audible might be a better option.

Read our full Kindle Unlimited review

Kobo Plus This is Kobo’s alternative to Kindle Unlimited, with three plans to choose from. You can choose just Read for ebooks only, Listen for audiobooks only and the full-fat Kobo Plus that gets you both ebooks and audiobooks. In general, I found a lot of titles on Kobo Plus that I didn’t find on Kindle Unlimited, but again, this is best if you are an existing Kobo ereader user.

Read our full Kobo Plus review

Libby by OverDrive

This isn’t an ebook subscription service, but is a free app that might be able to help you borrow ebooks from your local public library. The number of libraries around the world with OverDrive or Libby support is increasing, and all you need is a valid library card to get started. Some libraries can also offer magazines and comics too, so it would be great to check with your local library if Libby is supported for a free way to borrow titles. If you use a Kobo ereader, OverDrive is baked in and you can browse and borrow from a library directly from the ereader.

[ First reviewed February 2022 ]

While she's happiest with a camera in her hand, Sharmishta's main priority is being TechRadar's APAC Managing Editor, looking after the day-to-day functioning of the Australian, New Zealand and Singapore editions of the site, steering everything from news and reviews to ecommerce content like deals and coupon codes. While she loves reviewing cameras and lenses when she can, she's also an avid reader and has become quite the expert on ereaders and E Ink writing tablets, having appeared on Singaporean radio to talk about these underrated devices. Other than her duties at TechRadar, she's also the Managing Editor of the Australian edition of Digital Camera World, and writes for Tom's Guide and T3.

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Detailed Scribd review: Is It Worth It? Pros, Cons & Comparisons

• April 3, 2022

Scribd boasts that you get unlimited access to over a million titles of books, audiobooks, magazines, sheet music, and more with a Scribd subscription. Dubbed “The Netflix of Audiobooks,” this ebook subscription service has high hopes of taking over the online reading market.

With a slightly lower monthly subscription fee than Kindle Unlimited and quite a bit cheaper than an Audible subscription, is Scribd worth it? This Scribd review will give you all of the information you need to understand which book subscription service is right for you.

The Scribd App

Compatible with most devices, with the exception of e-ink readers like the Kindle Paperwhite, the Scribd app is user-friendly and relatively clean. It is easy to organize and access your account and your library and appeals to both Android and Apple users. It is easy to install, subscribe, and use. It also boasts the option for offline reading so that you can download popular titles.

Does Scribd Offer a Free Trial?

Yes, Scribd offers a free trial. However, you must provide your credit card information or a debit card number to access the free trial. Also, once you have accessed the free trial, you must cancel within thirty days, or you will be charged. This service does make automatic payments, and your Scribd membership will cost you $8.99 a month if you fail to cancel the free trial on time.

Do You Really Have Unlimited Access to Ebooks and Audiobook Titles?

This is a tricky question and one that gives Scribd a bit of a bad rap. Scribd claims that you can download or read as much as you want each month. Unlimited books for less than ten dollars a month is a great value. However, many users have expressed disappointment in this claim, saying it’s simply not true.

Is it Really Unlimited?

Unlimited reading is a bit of a stretch, according to some users. While Scribd books are readily available at the beginning of each pay cycle, many users find that Scribd throttles the titles and availability as the month goes on, limiting that unlimited reading they said that you could do.

If you’re just a casual reader or don’t complete more than one audiobook or so each month, then this isn’t going to be much of an issue for you. However, if you love audiobooks and consume them in quick succession, you may find the selection lacking after your second or third audiobook in a month. Worse yet, you may see that audiobooks are not offered at all after you’ve accessed a few in one month.

The really bad part is that Scribd doesn’t inform the users that the content is about to get throttled or that they are close to hitting a limit. There’s no real way of knowing just when the throttling process starts. This practice makes some users feel as though they have been misled at best and outright lied to at worst. A modest reader may be okay with the selection throughout the month. It may be a concern for a voracious reader, however.

Romance Readers Beware

Users of the Scribd app started to pick up on the throttling trend when romance book titles began to vanish. Is it because the genre isn’t all that popular? Definitely not. With growing suspicion that the book service pulled these titles from their monthly subscription service due to the fact that romance ebooks are generally consumed quickly by fans, more and more readers and users started to notice that other genres were being throttled as well.

If you like romance , you may be disappointed with the e books of this genre that are available to you. While the unlimited reading pitch isn’t a complete scam, and you can most likely find older titles available to you, you will most likely find that the number of titles available is lacking in this genre.

Audible vs. Scribd Review

When it comes to audiobooks, Scribd most likely knew it would have a hard time knocking Audible off its throne. Wildly popular but much more expensive, Audible, an Amazon-owned audiobook subscription service, has long been the top service avid readers prefer when it comes to audiobooks. So the question is, does Scribd stand a chance against this audiobook giant?

Scribd Offers Other Media Options

Scribd’s one major bragging point that Audible doesn’t is other media available. A new subscription to Scribd gets you ebooks, sheet music, magazines, and other convenient app features that many users find interesting. These features and the fact that Scribd costs roughly half of what Audible does for a monthly subscription fee gives Scribd a bit of a leg up.

Does Scribd Have All the Popular Books that Audible Has?

Scribd does have access to titles of audiobooks and ebooks from what is known as “The Big Five,” the publishers that produce the heavy hitters. These publishers are; Penguin Random House, Hachette, Harper Collins, Simon and Schuster, and MacMillan. With these big companies granting Scribd access to their work, there are a lot of audiobooks to choose from without ever having to consider the massive number of ebooks available.

However, Scribd doesn’t really come close to Audible in terms of numbers. The giant of audiobooks boasts three times the number of titles with their subscription service, and they don’t throttle. Sure, you are limited in your reading, but they don’t tell you that you have an unlimited number of books available and then throttle their library. They’re upfront about limits. This throttling issue makes up the bulk of negative reviews about how Scribd works.

Do You Own Your Downloaded Audiobooks?

With Audible, yes, you own your downloaded audiobooks, whereas, with Scribd, you do not. While this doesn’t matter to some readers, it matters a lot to others. Think of it this way. Would you rather rent books and then return them, or would you prefer purchasing the same book for a bit more than the rent price and owning it forever? That is the major difference between the two services.

With Audible, every book that you purchase and download is yours for good, even if you cancel your account. However, this is not true of Scribd. All the books that you have downloaded on Scribd are gone when you cancel your subscription. 

Kindle Unlimited Vs. Scribd Review

Kindle Unlimited, also owned by Amazon, not only offers several different types of media, but they also produce and sell their own e-readers. They have audiobooks, ebooks, and access to other sorts of media, just like Scribd. So what are the differences?

Kindle Unlimited Gives You Access to More Books

Kindle Unlimited has many more books in their library than Scribd does, and they don’t boast an unlimited download offer when really unlimited is quite arguable. The Kindle library is massive, and for one dollar more for an account and access to their website, many argue that it’s worth the money to go with Kindle.

Scribd Allows You to Post Your Own Content

One feature that Scribd can boast is that users can upload their own content (within reason) to the page or site when they have a membership. While you won’t make money doing this, those who are interested in sharing their own creations may do so, as long as what they wish to upload is a small enough file.

Other Features of Scribd

We’ve covered some of the big features of the Scribd service, but there are other features that Scribd offers that are worth taking note of as well.

Sleep Timer, Book Marks, and Notes

Scribd offers a sleep timer that can be set for your screen, as well as bookmarks, highlighters, and a note-taking feature. With a large library that includes several forms of media such as magazines, books to read and listen to, music, movies, and newspapers so that you can stay informed, many users love these slick features. 

A few months into the service, many users start to really get into the swing of using these features, and some will tell you that these small things make the difference for them.

The Business Model

Scribd knew when it started in 2007 that it was up against some pretty big competition. While the library can’t quite compete with the other Amazon services, Scribd does have a massive library of books, audiobooks, magazines, and sheet music. While their membership, even in free trial mode, does require a credit card on file, you can end your subscription at any time.

If you read one book and decide that it’s just not the platform for you, all you have to do is cancel your membership, and you will still have paid less than what you would have if you’d purchased the book. The downside to this is that you won’t own the book after canceling.

How to Cancel Scribd

Below are the steps you can take to cancel your Scribd subscription:

• Log into your Scribd account
• Go to your Account Settings page
• Choose Subscription & Payment Details
• Click End My Subscription or Cancel Subscription
• Click the link to proceed with the cancellation
• Review the pages of confirmations you will see
• Wait for the confirmation message signifying that you have successful cancelled your subscription
• Check your email address as well to see the confirmation from Scribd

The Final Word on Scribd

Scribd is a legitimate company that is very popular and well-reviewed for the most part. Qualms do exist with the service, but those have to do mostly with unclear verbiage in their marketing that boasts the ability to read as many books as you possibly can, when in fact, throttling occurs after a few books.

Cancelling Can Be a Pain

One other complaint that seems somewhat widespread is that some users of Scribd have reported having been charged even after their canceled the service. Be sure that if you download this app or use this service, you keep a close eye on your bank statement or credit card statements in the months following your cancellation so that you don’t run into the same issues.

All in all, Scribd seems worth the $8.99/month membership. A quick search of user reviews will tell you roughly the same thing. Most customers and users are happy with the service, and it’s a great alternative if you’re a casual reader looking for an inexpensive option for reading services.

A Breakdown of Scribd: Pros and Cons

The following are the pros and cons of the Scribd service that may further help you see what you’re getting into by signing up for the service.

Pros of Scribd

• Sleep timer for up to 2 hours
• Highlighters, bookmarks, and notes feature
• Magazines and other forms of media available all for one price
• Free trial offer
• Large library
• Student discount available
• Ability to post your own content
• Access to other services
• Can be used on up to four devices
• Can download books to be read when offline

Cons of Scribd

• Not supported by Kindle Paperwhite
• Must provide financial information to access a free trial
• Throttling after some use
• Unsubscribing can sometimes be a hassle
• You don’t own the books you download

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Scribd: Is it worth it? (2020 review updated)

What is Scribd?

Recently, Scribd offered 30 days of free access (no credit card required) in response to COVID-19. You’re probably wondering, should you even bother? Is Scribd worth it?

Scribd, which was established in 2007, is an online subscription service of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines and more. It touts itself as the world’s biggest library and has books from the Big 5 publishers such as Simon and Schuster, Penguin Random House, Hachette, HarperCollins, and Macmillan. It also has tonnes of books from independent writers and publishers, a big plus for me.

When I first reviewed Scribd in 2015 , I didn’t have great confidence that it was going to last. It had pulled out a number of romance novels from its catalogue; the business model seems to be standing on shaky legs.

I revisited the service on a whim last year, and discovered that yes, not only is it still around, it has improved by leaps and bounds. In fact, I think it can go toe-to-toe with the other ebook subscription we all know about – Kindle Unlimited. It is especially beneficial for non-American readers who can’t get access to Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited service. You know, countries like Malaysia.

Currently, the monthly subscription fee is about US$8.99, which is a dollar cheaper than Kindle Unlimited’s US$9.99 monthly subscription fee. You get a free trial for 30 days.

Here’s what you get with a Scribd subscription:

• Digital magazines and newspapers from the United States, Australia and United Kingdom
• Documents such as research papers, court filings, business templates
• Sheet music
• “Snapshots” – short summaries on popular non-fiction books

After a few months trying out Scribd again, I’ve come to the conclusion that Scribd is worth it if you’re a voracious reader. Heck, I believe it’s even better than Kindle Unlimited. Here’s why:

The Good Stuff

One: The magazine catalogue is reason enough to subscribe

I was overjoyed to find my favourite magazines on the platform. Many of these magazines cost more than the Scribd subscription and some are impossible to find in Malaysia. To have it just here at the click of a button was amazing. Also, I’m really glad that I could support these magazines via Scribd.

Two: You can find interesting and quirky titles to read

While it’s great to read popular books cheaply, it’s more exciting to find hard-to-get, rare reading gems and Scribd is full of them. I’m glad that it’s friendly to indie authors.

Three: A sustainable, minimalist way to read

I often whinge about my massive TBR and how I wish I had a minimalist library. (Ironically, I’m thankful for it now because Malaysia’s Movement Control Order has shut down all the bookstores.) Books are tough to maintain, causes dust build up that my sensitive nose hates and are a pain to sell. With Scribd, I don’t have to worry about all that.

Four: Great value for money

RM37 (US$8.99) can buy you a book. But with Scribd, you can read over a dozen ebooks, magazines and listen to a couple of audiobooks. (And they most certainly cost more than RM37.)

Five: A great, cost-efficient way to support authors and publishers

Nothing makes me happier than supporting fellow authors, but I can’t afford to buy more than two or three books a month, and even then that’s a splurge. (Books are sadly very expensive in Malaysia.) With Scribd, I can indulge in my voracious reading appetite while supporting writers and publishers.

Six: You have the option to pause the membership

Sometimes, you just don’t have the time to read the wealth of books available to you. Scribd allows me to pause my membership for a couple of weeks to three months. This is useful especially if you feel it’s a drag to keep unsubscribing and resubscribing to the service.

Seven: If you love audiobooks, it’s a cheaper option than Audible

An Audible subscription is about US$14.95-US$22.95 per month. Sure, you don’t get to keep the Scribd audiobooks, but imagine listening to three audiobooks for US$8.99? Pretty hard to beat.

The Bad Stuff

One: It’s not really unlimited

This is a biggie. Scribd boasts that you get unlimited reads with its subscription. But it’s not entirely true. You don’t get unlimited access to its audiobooks or ebooks. If I listen to more than half a dozen audiobooks, I’ll often get throttled. Suddenly, many audiobook titles become unavailable. They’ll only become available in the next payment cycle.

Also, there’s this weird bug where, if you save too many ebooks, you get throttled too. When you “save” an ebook, you effectively bookmark a book so that you can read or download it later, but apparently Scribd considers it read. Some subscribers have taken Scribd to task for this throttling issue. And yes, if you get greedy and download too many ebooks, the ebooks will suddenly disappear from your app.

While I think Scribd should have been more transparent, I think it’s understandable why they’re doing this. Their service is great value for money, but if they make the entire catalogue a free for all, the business model might not be sustainable.

Still, Scribd needs to fix it’s transparency issue. It makes readers feel lied to or tricked. (It’s probably is the reason behind its low Trustpilot score .) Also, it’s it’s highly annoying to not know when the throttling will happen. A simple counter such as “3 more books left” would have been immensely helpful.

Two: You don’t get to keep the books

I’m pretty happy not owning my books, but I can understand why you’d want to own something after spending RM37 a month. I mean, that’s the price of a book!

Three: It can cause overwhelm

When I restarted my Scribd membership, I found myself saving a tonne of books (120 to be precise). Or I downloaded over a dozen ebooks and half a dozen audiobooks. I may be a fast reader, but I can’t read that fast! I often end up overwhelmed, and since overwhelm causes stress, this is a downside you need to be conscious of.

Scribd could be for you if:

• You prefer not to own your books
• You want a cost-effective way to read a lot of books
• You’d like to explore new writers without spending too much
• You want to support writers and publishers

How about you? Would you consider subscribing to Scribd? If you’re a member, what do you think about the service?

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