Lakewood Public Library Goes Digital

Editor's note: This version of the story, updated Sept. 22, has the correct spelling of Morgan Maseth.

cardholders no longer have to get out of bed to check out and read a book.

On Sept. 1, the library joined the Ohio eBook Project, a consortium of 80 libraries hoping to cut cost and increase convenience to library patrons by offering downloadable eBooks, audiobooks, music and movies directly to digital devices such as eReaders and smartphones, said Morgan Maseth, of the library’s Adult and Electronic Services department.

“You’re actually able to check out anything from any of the libraries in the consortium,” Maseth said.

Here’s how it works:

First, users must have the free Adobe Digital Edition software on their computer, and the appropriate software on their digital device, which usually comes standard.

Then, they log in to the online database with their library card and PIN numbers and browse the selection, like on the card catalog.

When checkout time arrives, users can rent items for either one or two weeks. When that time is up, the digital version automatically expires, re-enters the catalog for other patrons and must be deleted from the original renter’s device.

After they check out, the item is downloaded to Adobe, transferred to the digital device and ready to be enjoyed.

“Once you’ve used it a little bit, it’s actually really easy,” Maseth said.

The partnership is just one way libraries across the state and country are trying to keep with the times and avoid problems of bookstores like Borders, who on July 18.

“People are getting really excited about it,” Maseth said. “It’s another way for us to keep moving forward.”