Computer stuff
The market boasts a wealth of linguistic software, notably language-compatibility packages. But they're pricey, starting at $150 Canadian, and beginners aside, those who need a language kit usually have one. On the other hand, if the person's computer isn't livestream-capable, the requisite upgrades make an excellent gift. Though RealPlayer livestreaming software is available free online, reliable reception demands a hefty whack of memory (32 megs minimum, often more) and a fast modem (28.8, rock-bottom). If your linguist can't enjoy the bounty of non-English broadcasts available online, more memory or a faster modem might do it. Once outfitted, the lucky dog can surf VirtualTuner's directory of livestreamed radio stations.
Books
Books are a good-news, bad-news scenario. On one hand, they are cost-effective and not too hard to track down in the real world. On the other hand, books are largely absent from the Net; even the much-ballyhooed Amazon.com is mighty spare on non-English works.
Starting with the easiest-to-find, consider these linguist-pleasing gift ideas:
General-Reference Bilingual dictionaries, the bigger, the better. Like most reference works, general bi's start to lose value the instant they go to press, so even if the person already has one, if it's more than ten years old, they're due for another. Contrary to popular belief, all bilingual dictionaries are not the same. The best offer nominal global orientation; avoid dictionaries that are limited to a single tradition, such as British English or Lisboã Portuguese. Also, check out geographical names. Traditionally these are listed separately, a considerable annoyance for users. The most up-to-date dictionaries integrate place names into the text. Finally, although CD-ROM reference works are all the rage now, I don't recommend them. Their interactivity is meagre compensation for the severe inconvenience of having to boot up a computer to use them.
Conjugation dictionaries, such as 201, 501, or 1001 Verbs, are equally indispensable, especially for students and those who frequently write in the target language. (I recommend at least 501; in most cases, 201 is too small.)
Picture dictionaries, full of drawings with all the elements labelled, are available for several languages. They contain a wealth of technical and other useful terms not found elsewhere; mine get daily use.
Speciality dictionaries, when available, are a sure hit. Subjects include slang, regionalisms, and technical or occupational vocab. Unlike general bi's, specialised dictionaries usually include valuable cultural commentary, and are often written in a lively or humorous style.
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