Wow that’s an amazing run you’ve given that kindle! I used to have that one as well, years ago.
If you are sticking in the Amazon/Kindle world, then a new Kindle (whether you go with the base Kindle or the Paperwhite) you’ll have a much faster experience for sure. The newer eink readers now can do several page turns without any real visual flash of the refresh. It’s a small thing but very nice.
The Paperwhite has a backlight which is helpful for night reading. You’ll also get dark mode in the new software (not sure if your keyboard kindle has stayed up to date with software updates or not). Also there’s waterproofing.
The base kindle just loses the light and the waterproofing.
If you’re not going to stick with Amazon, take a look at the Kobo readers. They’re a great alternative to people not stuck in the Amazon world.
There was an article recently talking about how forums are still around. Has a decent list too:
https://aftermath.site/best-active-forums-internet-today