Islanders can now check out and download eBooks and audio books to their computers or portable devices at anytime from the Prince Edward Island Public Library Service website, says Tourism and Culture Minister Robert Vessey.
“The public library system offers a wide variety of services including books, DVDs, research materials and internet access,” said the Minister. “Introducing eBooks is another technological step forward for the library and makes it even easier for Islanders to access books from anywhere.”
Islanders with a library card will be able to browse from a catalogue of 2,000 eBooks and audio books and download them immediately to their computer or transfer them to a mobile reading device, such as an e-reader, smart phone or MP3 player. Depending on the title, some books can be burned onto a disc.
Both classics and modern titles can be found at www.library.pe.ca. More books will be added as the collection grows.
Users will need to install free software, which is available on the library website, to access the service. Requesting titles for eBooks is similar to that used for the library system’s print collection. If a title is borrowed, Islanders can place a hold on it and be notified when the book has been returned. Returns are automatic, so there are no late fees.
Islanders can visit their local branch to receive a free library card.