I think you've been about as tactful as you can be, even with someone who doesn't understand web creation. You might try suggesting if the info objective is truly to share, which is really what the web is, it would be best to have an intro page with brief description of the type of info the file contains, then make the Excel file available as a "click here to get file".  That way each user could adapt the file to their own printer setup or copy just select portions of the data. I know that is what I would prefer. And if the user didn't have Excel or another adaptable software, OpenDocument and other freeware have spreadsheet capability to open an Excel file. It's really better for the user to make those choices vs. trying to copy off a screen file. Another thought - a contact email could be provided for the user to get more information. Doesn't your friend want to hear from other researchers? I would. In a different vein, I've been wondering how these new readers will handle script from books originally printed on non-standard size books. Guess only books created in word publishing functionality can be offered vs. the web which can adapt almost anything for viewing if it can be scanned, i.e. what Google books offers. What a great age we live in! Good luck educating your dear friend, Sandra from MN