Barnes and Noble releases waterproof NOOK GlowLight Plus

Reading a book on a traditional tablet, such as the iPad, is a passable experience. However, a dedicated reader with an e-ink display is much superior for reading. Not only is it more comfortable for your eyes, but it works better in the sun too. Not to mention the super-long battery life.

While Amazon's Kindle e-readers are all the rage, Barnes and Noble's e-ink Nook models are great too. Choosing one over the other is more of a personal preference, really. Today, Barnes and Noble unveils the all-new waterproof NOOK GlowLight Plus with 300 dpi. Yes, you can safely read books in the bathtub or in the pool. This is a huge benefit.

"NOOK GlowLight Plus has an advanced design that allows it to withstand water and dust, so customers can read at the beach, in the bathtub or alongside the pool without worry. The company designed the first-ever waterproof and dustproof NOOK for customers who requested a durable, portable design for their reading device", says Barnes and Noble.

The book-seller further says, "its sleek build, seamless construction and aluminum body make NOOK GlowLight Plus as beautiful as it is durable for an elegant and enjoyable reading experience. With a stylish, textured white border and a bronze-colored aluminum back, NOOK GlowLight Plus has a premium look and feel at an affordable price. Customers can effortlessly carry thousands of books in a lightweight device, featuring NOOK’s slimmest design ever. Weighing just 6.9 ounces, it is perfectly portable in any purse, bag or jacket pocket for reading on the go".

While you might question the need for a waterproof e-reader, I have seen many situations where it would be useful. As someone who goes on a tropical cruise each year, I see many people using Nooks and Kindles while lounging next to the pool or while relaxing at the beach. Having to worry about splashes and overall durability really sours the attempt at carefree book consumption.

The NOOK GlowLight Plus is IP67 certified, meaning it can be submerged in fresh water for up to 30 minutes. The maximum depth is only 3 feet, however, so it's more suited for reading in the bath.

The NOOK GlowLight Plus comes with some perks too, such as three free books and a $5 credit. My favorite benefit, however, is the free lifetime in-store support. An e-reader makes a great gift, but I do not want to become someone's dedicated tech support. With a Nook, my friend or family member can go into the physical store for help, while leaving me alone.

If you are interested in buying the bezel-heavy NOOK GlowLight Plus, you can pick it up today in-store or purchase it online here. The price is a very reasonable $129 and it does not contain advertisements like some Kindle models.