Ebook services in public libraries
Ebooks offer a new way to access thousands of new books every year at the same time as sighted readers. This summer, RNIB asked members of a National Library Service focus group to help with a survey of ebook services from public libraries. RNIB wanted to get a better idea of how many libraries provide ebooks and how accessible those services are. The survey was undertaken during Make a Noise in Libraries Fortnight (6-19 June) and shows that many libraries do not offer or plan to offer ebooks because the cost is too high.
Where ebook services are available, many testers found it difficult to log on via council websites using screen readers and magnification software, and navigating online catalogues and selecting titles to download also proved tricky. However, friendly and helpful library staff made a big difference although understanding of accessibility issues and the provision of accessible PCs in libraries was patchy.
- Read the full survey report (Word document)
RNIB have also produced a useful factsheet about ebooks in libraries:
- Accessible ebook services in public libraries (pdf document)