Re: Where can I download copies of free, legal O'Reilly books in HTML form?

[davido]

I'll point out that an affiliation with some open source group (Perl Mongers included) will usually get you a 50% discount on OReilly's ebooks. Once you've purchased that ebook, OReilly will allow you to download it in a variety of formats. HTML is generally not one of them though.

OReilly often offers free trials of their Safari service. You might give Safari a try and see if it's a good fit. If not, you just cancel before there's a charge.

Also, check eBay for used "Bookshelf" CD's (not copies, but originals, used). The Bookshelf CD's came with HTML format. As an example, an ebay search for "Oreilly Bookshelf" found me an auction that has an original "version 4.0" of the Perl Bookshelf for $5.00. This set contains six books.

Even if you can't find a legal source for free HTML versions of out-of-print OReilly books, there are several legal "low cost", or "no cost for awhile" options: OS discounts, Safari trial, eBay, public library, even trade with friends.