Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains, N.Y., has dumped books in favor of a digital library, accessible through apps and websites.

For students such as 15-year-old Nicholas Dadario—whose backpack last year typically weighed around 35 pounds—the change has lifted a weight off his back and his mind. “It’s not only lighter, but you’re mobile,” he says. “You can bring your computer to your friend’s house, wherever, and you’re all set.”

School officials say that for many students the online library will be cheaper, too. Most families spent about $700 on books annually for the private school. This year, access to the full online library will run $150—plus, of course, the cost of a tablet or laptop. (USA Today)

Paul Asay has covered religion for The Washington Post, Christianity Today, Beliefnet.com and The (Colorado Springs) Gazette. He writes about culture for Plugged In and wrote the Batman book God on the Streets of Gotham (Tyndale). He lives in Colorado Springs with wife Wendy and his two children. Follow him on Twitter.