6 November 2013

E-Books Now At Ruapehu Libraries

Library members can now loan electronic books (e-books) from Ruapehu District Council (RDC) libraries.

RDC Community Library, Fiona Thomas, said that the introduction of e-books was a really exciting addition to the digital services that Ruapehu libraries offer.

“E-books have won over the most hard core book lovers with their ease of use and convenience,” she said.

“Library members can download and store books on whole range of digital devices from i-pads and other tablet computers, smartphones, notebooks and PC’s, and most e-book readers except for Kindles which are proprietary to Amazon.”

“If you have a computer at home you’re ready to go.”

“The e-book system is really easy to use and borrowing e-books is free.”

Mrs Thomas said that to get started readers first need a compatible digital device and to visit their local library to set-up a personal password.

“With their library membership card they can then log into their account on the e-book platform.”

“When library members use the e-book service for the first time they will need to download some software from the e-book website by following the easy ‘getting started’ steps on the e-book homepage.”

“Readers can either access the e-book site directly at http://ruapehudistrictlibraries.wheelers.co or follow the link from the RDC website www.ruapehudc.govt.nz home page.”

Mrs Thomas noted that like the traditional printed book library Council needs to purchase e-books to stock the e-book library.

“Currently we have 130 books on offer which we will be adding to throughout the year,” she said.

“The speed at which we will build up our e-book collection will be driven by demand.”

“The e-book selection we have covers all genres and offers something for everyone of all ages and interests.”

“We even have the Man Booker Prize winner ‘The Luminaries’ by Eleanor Catton.”
“Readers are also able to reserve e-books just like with print books.”

Mrs Thomas added that library members can borrow up to three books at a time for a two week period after which they automatically ‘return’ themselves which means no overdue fees.

“The Ruapehu District Council library service is really excited about being able to now offer e-books to our readers,” she said.

“Anyone not familiar with e-books should have a look at the e-book website which people can view without signing-up.”

“If they have any outstanding queries or need assistance with getting set-up they can talk with their local librarian.”

ENDS

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