As Lisa wanna b said---you don't need wi-fi for downloading books..you do that on your computer and transfer via the USB cable. But if I'm not mistaken, you can browse the internet w/ a wi-fi connection. So I see where you're coming from with your question. I have a reader (not a Nook) and it will also connect to internet via wi-fi--BUT it is not worth my trouble....slow to connect...drops connection...I just don't bother since I have iPad and pc. If you love to read tho, it will be great to carry with you. Hospitals have wi-fi, McDonalds & Pizza Hut do, many businesses do, so go ahead and learn how to connect and drop it in your purse when you'll be sitting in a waiting rm. You'll grow to love it!