MARYSVILLE — “Now that they have implemented an eBook check-out system to include the Kindle, we are using the library more than ever without leaving home,” commented 67-year-old Jerry Kovacich, who moved with his wife to Coupeville, Wash., after retiring.
The hot holiday gift this year is the eReader, coined the “Tickle Me Elmo for grown-ups” by mashable.com. An eReader is a portable device with a screen for reading electronic versions of books (eBooks), magazines, newspapers, and other types of files.
Sno-Isle Libraries staff members are prepared for the onslaught of post-holiday questions such as: I received an eReader as a gift, now what? How do I check out an eBook? Can I download library eBooks for free? (The answer is yes.) I downloaded a book, but I can’t find it — who can help?
There are three easy ways for library customers to get started educating themselves on eReaders and eBooks: 1. Take a free class at the library, 2. Book-a-Librarian for one-on-one assistance, and 3. Use the helpful tutorials provided at http://bit.ly/download-help or http://www.overdrive.com/Solutions/Libraries/tour/MenuWelcome.html.
With 13 classes scheduled through February at various libraries in Snohomish and Island counties, anyone can sign up to learn the basics of downloading eBooks. Topics include which devices are library compatible, how to browse and check out eBooks in the Sno-Isle catalog, and how to use OverDrive software to download free library eBooks.
The eight classes titled “Librarians as Information Guides: Downloading eBooks at Your Library” give students the opportunity to download an eBook in class if they bring in their laptop and eReader, or their Wi-Fi enabled device. The “Librarians as Information Guides” project is funded by The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Back in September 2011, eBook downloads jumped by 80 percent at Sno-Isle on the first day Kindle compatible eBooks were offered. Since then, the eBook catalog has grown to more than 8,500 titles, along with thousands of audiobooks, movies and music titles.
Kovacich added, “eBooks are great but maybe we are old fashion in that we still like to also check out physical books. There is nothing like the feel of a physical book in your hands and losing yourself in a great adventure story on a cold, rainy night.”
More helpful links:
