Not for Everyone? E-books and the Public Library Scott Voth

Point of View E-books challenge equal access by putting barriers between some patrons and the information they seek. They deepen the divide that already polarizes patrons along economic, racial, and generational lines. E-books push the Public Library in a direction it has to go. Strategies should be in place to ensure that in the rush to adopt e-books, patrons have equal access to information.

Historical Background Early failure of E-books promise of “huge libraries of electronic books, available to everyone, everywhere, all the time” unrealistic seen as part of internet ‘hype’ devices were not “book-like” enough compatibility issues inspired little confidence in publishing world Current Resurgence growth area in publishing – more content available better e-book reading devices (ERDs) e-book concept not so foreign

Evolving Definition of an E-book previous incarnation as a print book, but not always circulated through a web-based provider accessed (or “checked-out”) via library card or barcode read on a device such as a ERD, PDA, tablet PC, or just a laptop or desktop PC copyrights are protected through its software copying and printing not generally allowed software provides search and annotation functions software links to dictionaries and other reference books hyperlinks often used

Current Operating Models Three major e-book providers for public libraries: – NetLibrary (older model) oldest e-book provider Mostly books in public domain No off-line access – OverDrive (newer model) Partners with Microsoft Check out periods – generally 21 days Cover to cover reading Wide selection of fiction and non-fiction – Ebrary (reference model) Really a digital reference library of 60,000 books Extensive search and cross referencing capabilities Business, careers, computers, education, humanities

Advantages to the Public Library saves physical space efficiency (library staff not really involved) automated check-in/check-out permanency (e-books never lost or stolen) no preservation issues quickly increase library’s collection libraries may buy based on patrons’ needs

Advantages to the E-book user e-books can be centrally stored user can easily search through personal digital library integrates easily with other e-content convenience of 24/7 access from home ease of renewals annotation capabilities Built-in dictionary

Inherent Problem of Equal Access “Please note that digital books can be enjoyed at home, at work, or when you travel, but are generally not for use on the computers in your library.” – OverDrive FAQs Barriers between some patrons and e-books a good device an internet connection exposure and training an open mind

Potential Solutions Public libraries should loan out ERDs – both outside and inside library – historical precedents Public librarians should provide e-book training Technological improvements cheaper lighter and more rugged easier on the eyes wireless able to read all formats feel like a book generally appealing to the user

Conclusions E-books are still a small part of the public library’s collection, but as they become more commonplace, strategies should be in place to address equal access issues. Nevertheless, the digital divide is a persistent problem. Integrating e-books into its operating model is a challenge the Public Library can ill-afford to ignore.