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Electronic Books in Public Libraries |
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A Feasibility Study for Developing Usage Models for Web-Based and Hardware-Based Electronic Books Funded by Laser Foundation Project head:Dr James Dearnley, Professor Cliff McKnight & Dr Anne Morris of the Department of Information Science and Linda Berube Regional Manager, Co-East Libraries and Information Service, Cambridge. Duration: March 2003 - March 2004 Description With the implementation of the People's Network has come an increased awareness not only of the necessity for appropriate public library electronic content, but also of the various delivery mechanisms which would encourage public library users to avail themselves of Web resources. Indeed, if they are not already, public libraries will become the proving ground for Web uptake by the public, as a significant number will be introduced to the Web through such delivery mechanisms as LearnDirect and People's Network terminals, as wellas through such portable devices as laptops and electronic books. Public library provision of this last resource, specifically in the form of electronic book (e-book) software and devices, has certainly not been widespread in the UK. The reason is partially owing to the lack of availability, both of the hardware and particularly British content. But, more importantly, there is a distinct hesitation connected to the lack of appropriate models through which to introduce them effectively to the public. To begin to address this gap, Co-East and Loughborough University aim to develop workable guidelines for introducing and maintaining e-book collections and are submiting this bid under the 'E-content for public libraries' theme. The project will consider e-book implementation and usage at a Co-East partner library authority, Essex, over a one year period, starting in March 2003. E-book provision will be based on lending portable reading devices and providing PC-based Web access to software-based e-books to a range of library patrons. The project will evaluate feedback to e-book formats from both library staff and patrons. Results will be of interest to public librarians, publishers and service providers both in the UK and abroad. The results of the project will be disseminated widely. Contact: Dr James Dearnley Email: J.A.Dearnley@lboro.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)1509 223060 |
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