Perth and Kinross libraries staff are gearing up for the launch of a new e-book lending service.
The local authority’s electronic book lending service will provide access to a wide range of titles, including e-audio books, and will be introduced from October 31.
Council staff are being trained in the new service in the run-up to the launch and tutorials and demonstrations have been organised for customers to show them how to use it.
Information and previews of the new service will be available in libraries from October 22.
Library customers will be able to download e-books to read on tablets, smartphones, laptops, PCs and e-readers. However, the service will not be available on the Kindle format.
Councillor Bob Band, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s lifelong learning committee, said: ”We are delighted to be able to provide this new service for our library users. This is the kind of modern service that our library customers expect us to be providing.
”All existing and new members of our libraries will be able to use the new e-book service. It will provide easy access to books for people wherever there is an internet connection.”
He continued: ”When you borrow a book using the online service it will wirelessly appear on your device. There will be no charges for overdue books. Once your borrowing time is up the book will simply disappear from your device so you don’t have to remember to take your library books back.
”E-books are particularly good for people who might find it hard to access our libraries due to illness or disability. Font sizes can be adjusted, and many e-audio books will be on offer.”
The e-book lending service will initially be made available as a pilot project, funded by the Crockart Foundation, for two years, after which time it will be evaluated.