'Borrow a Kindle' at the Mahwah Library

E-books are changing the way we think about books and reading. When a friend tell you about a great new book they read, you may think of borrowing it from the Library as a book, a book on CD, a downloadable audiobook or an eBook.  Beginning in March, the Library will offer pre-loaded eBook readers to patrons as well.

eBooks are becoming the preferred method of reading for many Americans.  In fact, a recent PEW Internet and American Life Project Report noted that in the past year, the number of those who read e-books increased to 23% of all Americans.  

“We’re seeing a remarkable shift in how people access information,” noted Kurt Hadeler, the Mahwah Library’s director. “There’s a tremendous demand for eBooks. They are an important part of the library landscape.”

The shift toward eBook reading coincides with an increase in ownership of electronic book reading devices. As of last year, 25% of American adults own a tablet, while 19% own a dedicated eBook reader. 

Starting in March, the Library will offer pre-loaded eBook readers to patrons who do not own a tablet or other eReader. 

The Library purchased five Kindle Paperwhites to loan to patrons. Each Kindle Paperwhite is loaded with over 40 titles, ranging from classics such as Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre to contemporary fiction and non-fiction bestsellers like the runaway smash Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.

“The Paperwhite was chosen for this service because of its ease of use, high resolution display and extremely long battery life,” said Allison Moonitz, the Library’s supervising librarian.

The Library has offered eBooks through the Bergen e-Audio Team (“BeAT”) services for several years. Recently, the Bergen County Cooperative Library System launched its “eBCCLS” eBook service, allowing library patrons throughout the county access to eBooks. Lending eBook readers is a natural progression, said Moonitz. 

Borrowing an eReader allows Mahwah residents a chance to participate in the growing adoption of eBooks without purchasing a device. 

“By loaning eReaders, we can connect everyone in the community with ideas and information,” she said. “Even if they don’t have a tablet or eReader at home.” Once borrowed, users will be able to read any of the pre-loaded titles without setting up an account, downloading software or purchasing titles.  Library staff will walk people unfamiliar eBook readers through the steps of turning it on, selecting a book and basic navigation. 

Library cardholders may borrow a Kindle for two weeks and may renew it for an additional 2 weeks provided that there is no one waiting for a device. To borrow an eReader, Mahwah residents must have a valid Mahwah Library card, be 18 years or older and be in good standing with the library (no fines or overdue items).

For more detailed information about the e-reader lending service please visit www.mahwahlibrary.org or contact the Reference Department at 201-529-READ.

The above is a release from the Mahwah Library.