[Web4lib] Request for info: Libraries that are circulating e-book readers

[Michelle Watson]

Hi,

We have recently begun circulating kindles at Deakin Uni, and have also purchased a number if iPads, Kobo readers and Handiis which we may also circulate (Sony readers are not yet available here in Australia).

We are finding there is value in having these tools on hand so library staff can see, feel and use them - and to discover whether there are any access issues with the library's e-books (there are). Last week we had an afternoon where we all got to try them out. Library staff are also encouraged to borrow them overnight. 

The other positive is it's good PR for the Library to be seen to be proactive in this area, and to be perceived as embracers of new technology. It allows us to build some knowledge/expertise in the area. 

I've also read about one library which lent out their kindles with nothing on them, allowing the client to choose and download titles on behalf of the library - so it's an empowering thing for the user and the library gets an understanding of client reading preferences.

Contact Janine Epps (Janine.epps at deakin.edu.au) if you want more detailed info. about the project.

Cheers,
Michelle.



-----Original Message-----
From: web4lib-bounces at webjunction.org [mailto:web4lib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Norma Jean Hewlett
Sent: Tuesday, 22 June 2010 9:56 AM
To: web4lib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Web4lib] Request for info: Libraries that are circulating e-book readers

Hi, everyone
I'm looking for any info about libraries that are circulating e-book
readers.

We are especially interested in the use of Kindles or iPads in academic
libraries, but use of any type of reader in any type of library would also
be useful.

Many thanks for your help as we try to design envision how such a program
might work.

Jean Hewlett
University of San Francisco
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