library ereader lending policies
DESCRIPTION
Highlights the most common Library practices for eReader lending. Also includes an overview and additional resources document; the eBook Reader Policies Spreadsheet, which contains links to policies, FAQs, user agreements, request forms, and other supporting materials; and the PLDS FY2011 eReaders and Tablets Spreadsheet, which lists the libraries that circulate this equipment in order of population (most to least).TRANSCRIPT
Library eReader Lending Policies
Angela PierpaoliTechnology Support Librarian
Buffalo and Erie County Public LibraryPresented July 10, 2012
Article in Clarence Bee – Lifestyles
Research Process – Click to View
eBook Reader Policies Spreadsheet
PLDSFY2011 eReaders and Tablets Spreadsheet
Overview and Additional Resources Document
Where Did I Get My Information?
Library websiteseReader lending policy pagesFAQ pagesDesignated website pages devoted to eReader/eBooks
programs User AgreementsRequest FormsLibrary CatalogsFlyersWebinarsCase studies
Policy Components and Common Practices
Types of Readers
Most CommonKindlesNooksSony Readers
To a Lesser Extent3MKoboiPads
Recommendations – Kindle (if we could only choose 1 right now), mix would be better, keep an eye on 3M, and look at iPads down the road
Who Can Checkout
Most Common18 and older (some policies allow teens to
checkout if legal guardian accepts liability)Library card in good standingNeed photo ID and library card at checkoutOnly 1 per householdStipulation to refuse services to anyone who
abuses equipment or doesn’t follow policies (consistently late, uses bookdrop, etc.)
User Agreements
Many libraries have user agreements that patrons have to sign. Not only do they have to agree to the policies, but it also allows staff to go over replacement costs and other significant repercussions of losing, damaging, not returning equipment. (Benefits patron as well as library).
Where To Request Equipment
While a few libraries have request forms, or patrons have to request in person, most common to put holds on device records in Catalog.
Equipment most often available for pickup at Front Desk/Welcome Desk/Service Desk, sometimes Circulation Desk, or Computer Help Desk
Pilot projects sometimes start with select rather than all branches.
Pre-Loaded or Patron-Added Content
Most CommonPre-loaded with popular or classic titles, or themesMost often in Catalog Bib record under Added Author
and/or Added Title, although lists sometimes on website.
To a Lesser ExtentBlank. The libraries that offered this tended to have
the Overdrive service, and returned devices to default settings upon check-in.
Some libraries offered a combination of pre-loaded and patron-added content, which offers the most flexibility to patrons.
Circulation Policies
Checkout typically 14 or 21 daysMost don’t allow renewals.Late fees $1-2 per day, sometimes $5Most libraries do not allow return to
bookdrop. Most libraries charge full replacement cost
for lost/damaged items, sometimes including a processing fee.
Accessories
Most Common
Device itselfCarrying caseCoverUSB AdapterPower CordInstructional GuideIf pilot, sometimes a survey that has to be filled
out and returned as part of user agreement
Funding
Library FoundationFriends GroupsInstitute of Museum and Library
Services/Federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds
Private DonationsPartnerships with eReader vendorsGovernment Grants
Unique Cases
iPad program (L.E. Phillips Memorial Library)Must be willing to spend time learning to use
the device with a staff member prior to check-out (15 minutes). (Broward County)
Nook Book Club Kids (Durham County)Accessibility issues. Nook Simple Touch
lawsuit (Free Library of Philadelphia)Best documentation for other libraries
(Sacramento)