The desktop version of Stanza quickly and easily converts documents; you don't need an iPod to use it. It's available at
http://www.lexcycle.com/desktop . To convert a document, all you need do is open the plaintext version of the document go to File, choose "Save As," and select the name and location you wish the ePub version to be placed. Couldn't be easier!
But it sounds like you have some other ideas in mind. Whatever you go with, I hope you do find something that will work for you.
Joy,
Lynn
