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Public Libraries Worldwide Reach Milestone with One Billion Digital Book CheckoutsCLEVELAND, March 20, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- While some thought digital was going to signal the decline of libraries, it has instead strengthened library systems and positioned them as a hub for innovation, education and a place of reading happiness beyond the bookshelves. After surpassing one million digital book checkouts in 2007 and 100 million in 2012, leading digital reading platform OverDrive today proudly announces another remarkable milestone – libraries around the world have reached one billion digital book checkouts. "Libraries are at the forefront of a digitally evolving world, offering readers in their communities access to innovative tools to borrow titles from their digital collection within seconds," said Steve Potash, founder and CEO of OverDrive. "Working with over 40,000 libraries and schools, OverDrive enables readers around the world to borrow popular titles in all subjects anytime and anywhere." The Evolution of Digital Reading in the Library The rapid takeoff of digital reading can be attributed to a variety of factors, including broad adoption of mobile apps and industry standard eBook and audiobook file formats. In addition, OverDrive has developed a number of additional tools for libraries to augment this growth, including API integration with library websites and catalogs, digital book clubs, and the recently launched Libby app. These tools make it easier than ever for readers to search their local library's digital collection and use any device, including Kindle, to take eBooks and audiobooks on-the-go. What began as a project at the Cleveland Public Library has developed into a broad industry trend, reaching millions of readers of all ages through 40,000 libraries and schools in 70 countries. The Role Local Libraries Play in Digital Reading
Visit the OverDrive Blog to view a detailed infographic of the Billion Digital Checkouts and significant milestones that have helped accelerate innovation in libraries. To find a library near you, visit www.overdrive.com or install the Libby app (iOS, Android, Windows). About Rakuten OverDrive David Burleigh View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/public-libraries-worldwide-reach-milestone-with-one-billion-digital-book-checkouts-300616759.html SOURCE OverDrive |