Richmond Public Libraries goes digital: offers Nooks, eBooks, and eAudiobooks for lending

This week, the local public library system begins lending digital books and audiobooks. They are also first library system in Central Virginia to offer free Nook readers.

October 21, 2011; 6:00 AM • by RVANews staff

The Richmond Public Library system began offering Nook Simple Touch readers for lending last month, the only library system in Central Virginia to do so. Now, the library system lends eBooks and audiobooks to all who hold a Richmond Public Library card. Users may check out the digital content through the Library’s website.

“We are pleased to be able to offer our patrons the opportunity to download library books to their personal electronic devices,” says Harriet Coalter, Library Director, in a press release. “With the number of technological devices that most people own and use on a daily basis, it was the logical next step for the Library to offer electronic books to our patrons.”

The downloaded materials will function on most computer, tablets, and MP3 players. Individuals have 14 days to either read or listen to the loaned material, after which the eBook and eAudiobook will automatically remove itself. The library system currently offers approximately 1,000 eBooks and 300 audiobooks. A number that Harriet Coalter says will keep growing.

Richmond Public Libraries also offer 36 Nooks. Each device comes with pre-installed books based on theme (such as best-sellers, romance, and non-fiction, etc.). “Many people want to try an eReader before committing to the purchase of one,” says Coalter. “By offering these devices, our patrons can easily carry a selection of materials during the loan, and decide if they like the format of an eReader.” To check out a Nook reader, patrons must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid library card, and present a photo ID. Individuals can be lent a Nook reader for 14 days.

Library cards are free and available to residents of the City of Richmond, plus the surrounding 13 cities, towns, and counties. A valid ID with current address is required when applying for a library card at any of the nine Richmond City Libraries.

 

photo by CarbonNYC

October 21, 2011 6:00 AM 0