Library goes global with free eBooks

By LPR Staff

Editor/POST-REGISTER

The state’s oldest continually operational library has gone global.

The Dr. Eugene Clark Library has unveiled the latest in a series of steps being taken to enhance services for literature lovers, with the introduction of free downloadable eBooks and audio books.

“With so many people taking the plung

e into the digital world, this service will be sure to please old and new owners of e-readers alike,” said Library Services Director Bertha Martinez. “Our patrons can now enjoy the digital literary world any time, anywhere.”

E-reader users throughout Caldwell County have been delighted with the announcement, with some joking to Martinez that the availability of eBooks will reduce their families’ monthly budgets.

The service, funded by Evening With the Authors, will allow all library card holders to access a consortium of statewide libraries for downloadable eBooks or audiobooks, which can be downloaded to a variety of devices, including Kindle and Nook readers, iPads, iPhones and all other compatible electronic readers.

What’s more, the titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period (14 days) and be deleted from the device. Patrons don’t have to worry about returns or late fees.

“We are delighted to finally be able to offer this service,” Martinez said during the launch of the program on Monday afternoon. “Through the funding from Evening With the Authors, we’ve also begun to build our own digital catalog, so in addition to the books available with the consortium, we’re going to have eBooks and audiobooks of our own.”

The download service is hosted at www.ctdl.lib.overdrive.com, and is available 24 hours a day.

In connection with the launch, the Dr. Eugene Clark Library will be hosting a series of training sessions to help patrons learn how to use the service. The first of the classes will be held on Tuesday, March 19 at 6 p.m.

For information or to sign up for a library card, visit the Dr. Eugene Clark Library at 217 S. Main St., or call (512) 398-3223.