Bailey, Nina

Platt, C.  (2011).  Popular e-content at the New York Public Library: Successes

and challenges.  Publishing Research Quarterly,  27(3), 247-253.  DOI: 10.1007/s12109-011-9231-6.  Retrieved on April 18, 2014 from Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts with Full Text.

IL

Summary:

The purpose of this article is to present the findings and success of the New York Public Libraries using e-readers and other digital media.  According to the author, the electronic collections of the NYPL are the most heavily used of any public library in the United States.  The article reviews the ebook site, hosted by Overdrive, which is utilized in the Library as well as the scope of their e-collection.  It addresses the successes and challenges that the library as faced over the years.  One challenge presented is how to deal with the specific needs of its patrons related to the technology being utilized when faced with a limited staff and budget.  In addition, it discusses content and how different publishers release limited content to libraries, which differs from what an individual can purchase themselves.  This makes it challenging to stay abreast of the newest, and most popular titles as they come out.

Evaluation:

There is a lot of information contained in this article, especially related to the friction that exists between publishers of digital content and libraries that offer e-lending programs. While the setting, large public library vs. smaller school library, is not the same, many of the issues faced by the NYPL are relevant to school libraries and there are lessons to be learned from their experiences.