Check out the interesting article by Kevin Kelly at kk.org on how Amazon may offer the Kindle reader for free. If his speculation pans out, others will follow. Along with addressing the price of the devices is the continued development of these to provide a compelling and enjoyable experience.
no, I am not advocating free e-reader, just noting that they could be around the corner. Look at the cost of mobile phones now compared to 10, 15 and 20 years ago.