KEeReader

KEeReader is a browser-based (HTML5/ CSS/JavaScript) general purpose reading application with two primary goals: 1) to make eBooks first class citizens in the web, rather than being held captive by specific devices, apps and retailers and 2) to let readers use eBooks more like they use print books. Readers can read their books on any device with a modern browser and they can open more than one book at the same (including multiple instances of the same book), an ideal environment for students or researchers. Using search engine optimization techniques (SEO) eBooks can be made more discoverable through normal web searches. With web-based eBooks, publishers can collect analytics data to see how their books are being used and accessed, something that is difficult, if not impossible. in the current mainstream eBook environment.

KEeReader provides all the functionality one would expect in an eReader including font resizing, highlighting, notes, bookmarks, and search. It is designed to work with almost any type of content from trade novels to textbooks. Because it is developed using responsive design methodologies, it will work on most mobile devices using a modern browser, all with exactly the same content files (no need to convert to support different devices and sizes). Since KEeReader operates on the web, the entire array of web resources are available to enhance eBooks. For example, Wiktionary is the default dictionary and Wikipedia is the default encyclopedia that are accessible from the reading panel. If a reader wants to know more about a word or concept, they simply highlight the text and click or touch the appropriate button on the screen. Several KEeReader specific add-on "widgets" including image zooming, text folding, footnote and glossary popups, and flyout sidebars can also be enabled within the content, with many more planned.

In addition to this expected functionality, KEeReader has some unique capabilities. The KE stands for "Knowledge Enhanced". By adding RDFa markup into the content, any knowledge contained with the text can be used to provide summary information about a person or topic and to support smarter searching. In addition, a natural language query parser allows readers to add new information or to ask questions of the book and get answers back. This also allows users to search on the concepts rather than only the words within a text. For example, a biology book encoded with species information could allow students to also find instances of "squirrel" and "giraffe" when they search for "mammal". But in a novel, it is not good to give plot points away in advance. KEeReader is able to manage situational knowledge, so the system does not reveal information until the reader has encountered it. That way they can query for a reminder, but not reveal spoilers.

Books can be loaded into KEeReader by ingesting EPUB or HTML files or through publisher APIs such as HarperCollins' OpenBook. The KEeBooks store is currently in development, where readers will be able to purchase knowledge enhanced eBooks that can be read in KEeReader.