Library Revs Up E-Reader Program

After a long and competitive application process, the Westborough Library was selected by Sony as one of 60 libraries nationwide to participate in the Sony Reader Library Program. As a participant, the library will have Sony e-readers to loan out to card holders. In addition, the library will be purchasing more downloadable e-books and e-audiobooks for patrons to use through Overdrive on their e-readers, smart phones, MP3 players, other handheld devices and even on their home computers.

“The library has had many, many requests for e-readers that people could check out with their library card and take home to try out. We’re thrilled to have been selected for the Sony program so we can bring e-readers to Westborough," said Maureen Ambrosino, library director.

The Sony Reader Library Program was set up to encourage librarians to try out e-reading and make e-reader devices available to the public. A Sony e-reader is a small device, about the size of a paperback book (but much thinner) that can be used to read electronic copies of books. Most e-readers are able to store several hundred books on one small, lightweight device. 

The library staff received a half day of training with a representative from Sony. He taught them all the features of the Sony e-reader, how to find and purchase content, where to look for free, public-domain e-books, and how to transfer content from a computer to the device. In addition, he showed the library staff how to troubleshoot common problems that might occur with the device. 

“The Friends of the Westborough Public Library purchased two Nook e-readers, so thanks to their generosity and Sony’s, we will have wonderful new technology to loan," Ambrosino said.

There is currently a Sony Reader Pocket Edition display unit located between the circulation desk and the reference desk. Library patrons are encouraged to try it out and pick up some written information. The actual program should be up and running by the end of July, at which time e-readers will be available to check out for a week at a time.

Maureen Ambrosino is excited about this opportunity for the library and the residents of Westborough. “We will have different brands of devices to loan out,” she said, “and if library users already have a smartphone, e-reader or other compatible device, they can already use our books through Overdrive.”

To check on the status of the availability of the e-readers visit the library website at www.westboroughlib.org. Check under the listing “Downloadable Digital Books.”

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date on the latest Westborough news, or simply hit the "like" button at the top of this page.