NetLibrary Launches First eBookTool Kit™

Web-Based resource provides tips and materials to assist Libraries in integrating, promoting and increasing usage of eBooks

BOULDER, COLO. – June 17, 2001 - NetLibrary™, the leading provider of eBooks and Internet-based content/collection management services for libraries, announced today that all of its library customers will have access to a newly created eBook Tool Kit. The eBook Tool Kit is a comprehensive web-based resource featuring a host of integration, marketing, and promotional tools designed specifically for - and by - libraries. The eBook Tool Kit encompasses topics such as how to successfully integrate eBooks into the library’s OPAC, how to increase usage, and how to develop and implement eBook marketing and PR programs, promotions, or special events. It also serves as a ready training tool that libraries can use with both staff and patrons to familiarize them with the advantages of eBooks.

“The launch of the eBook Tool Kit is another NetLibrary first”, said Marge Gammon, Senior Director of Marketing for NetLibrary. “We are excited to bring our customers a comprehensive new tool that will make it easier for librarians to introduce NetLibrary eBooks to their patrons and help them increase awareness and usage of eBooks . This tool is all the more effective because of the valued input and feedback of the libraries we serve, and we applaud them for their participation, fresh thinking, and enthusiasm for NetLibrary eBooks.”

Customers who order NetLibrary eBooks will receive a CD with an interactive tutorial which directs users to a regularly updated web site. The web site is organized along two main tracks: eBook Fundamentals and Promoting eBooks. The eBook Fundamentals section encompasses key steps such as integrating eBook MARC records into library systems, how to track usage, guidance for integrating eBook information into the library web site, collection development support, and contact information for eBook distributors. The Promoting eBooks section covers NetLibrary training options; public relations tips and templates; promotional resources available to order, such as posters, bookmarks and window clings; ready-made ads, logos and graphics available for download and use in customized materials; as well as pre-programmed web pages for download and use on the library’s web site, creating easy links for patrons to eBook information as well as the library’s collection of eBooks.

eBooks are full-text electronic versions of published books that library patrons can search, borrow, read, and return via the Internet. With NetLibrary eBooks, users can access library resources anywhere, anytime, and perform full-text searches across hundreds of books or within a specific book to speed research and reference projects. These books can be viewed online from a library, office, home, or remote location using an Internet browser, or can be downloaded to a laptop. Added benefits include an embedded dictionary in each book with accompanying visuals and verbal pronunciation. eBooks are available for varying checkout periods and are automatically checked back into the library collection when the checkout period expires.

NetLibrary (www.NetLibrary.com) is the leading provider of eBooks and Internet-based content management services. Hundreds of publishers of academic, professional, reference, and scholarly books have adopted NetLibrary's digital rights management infrastructure. NetLibrary develops, archives, hosts, and securely distributes eBooks and print-ready files through a variety of channels, including academic, corporate, public, and school libraries. NetLibrary eBooks are full-text searchable and available for use on personal computers in online and offline formats.

Contact:
Marge Gammon
NetLibrary
(303) 381-8799
mgammon@netlibrary.com

Jim McDougald
GCI Group
(303) 381-2585
jmcdougald@gcigroup.com