You asked and we listened! East Central Regional Library will launch ebook service in late 2011. The ECRL Board of Directors gave their approval, an implementation team is established, and we're making plans.
An ebook (also called e-book, electronic book, digital book) is a book-length publication in digital form, consisting of text, images, or both, and produced on, published through, and readable on computers or other electronic devices. E-books are usually read on dedicated hardware devices known as e-Readers or e-book devices. Personal computers and some cell phones can also be used to read e-books. (definition from Wikipedia).
People who love their ebooks say they appreciate being able to have multiple books on a single device that weighs less than 8 ounces. With a backlit screen, ereaders are read easily in low light, and print size can be enlarged or reversed (white on black) for comfortable viewing.
ECRL provides books in a variety of formats - traditional print in either hardback or paperback and audio books on CD. Soon, residents of the east central region will be able to download an ebook to their own ereaders 24/7. Ebooks can also be read on some cell phones, home computers, or tablet computers (like iPads). Downloading can be done via the Internet, and the book will be available on the ereader until the checkout period expires, when access to the book will end. No trips to the library to pick up or return books, and no risk of overdue fees.
Watch this space over the next couple months for further details about ECRL's coming ebook service. For now, please help us make plans for the launch, select the initial offering of books, and set up our system by taking an online survey at:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SC8P7QV
Barbara Misselt, Director
Both outgoing and incoming Pine City Branch Librarians were honored on Saturday, August 6 as they served as Grand Marshals in the Pine City Parade.
