OverDrive, a digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, and other digital content, has announced Test Drive, a programme for libraries to support demonstration and lending of eBook reading devices and tablets to their patrons. The programme includes device recommendations and guidelines for setup, maintenance and support, as well as best practices for institutions that want to stock and lend eBook readers and tablets to patrons.
The Sony Reader Wi-Fi (Model PRS-T1) has been selected as the first ‘Test Drive Approved' device. Test Drive Approved device requirements include compatibility with the library's eBook catalogue, direct Wi-Fi checkout and eBook download via an onboard browser or app, and copyright protection (DRM) and lending practices that conform to rules as required by publisher permissions. Test Drive devices are selected based on durability, ease-of-use for library staff and patrons to setup and maintain, as well as battery life, performance, and other usability factors.
Over the coming weeks and months, the company will be announcing additional ‘Test Drive Approved' eBook readers and tablets, including colour units for use with illustrated eBook genres. OverDrive is also testing and preparing to release information for Test Drive Approved accessible devices for print-impaired readers. Accessible eBook reading devices in the Test Drive program for US public libraries will support the Library eBook Accessibility Program (LEAP), OverDrive's free service to libraries that offer accessible eBooks in partnership with Bookshare.org.
The OverDrive Test Drive programme was developed in response to recommendations by The Council of State Librarians (COSLA) from its 2010 report that outlined the need for low-cost, library-friendly eBook devices that library staff could use to train and lend to patrons. Accessibility and upholding publisher rights and library policies were among the requirements listed in that report. OverDrive's Test Drive programme gives the libraries the tools needed to effectively and efficiently develop programmes to select and provide their staff and patrons with such devices.
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