Los Gatos Library Connects With E-Book Supplier OverDrive

The Los Gatos Public Library is the first in the country to implement one-click access to leading eBook supplier OverDrive using its Library Mobile App from Palo Alto-based Boopsie, according to librarian Henry Bankhead.

The integration, possible by Boopsie, allows the library's estimated 20,000 patrons to quickly browse through a list of available eBooks and check them out with one click, Bankhead explained.

The functionality greatly streamlines the eBook checkout process and patrons using the library mobile app can check out eBook titles for the maximum of 21 days, whereas the Overdrive app defaults to the minimum seven-day check out, he said.

To access the library's free mobile download, visit lgpl.boopsie.com using your phone's Internet browser. iPhone users can obtain the application through the Apple app store and Android users can obtain the application through Android Market.

To meet the growing demand for eBooks, the library has also been expanding inventory, by as much as 800 percent, through adding eBooks to a sub-collection of the Northern California Digital Library (Overdrive Advantage) that is only accessible by Los Gatos patrons, Bankhead added.

The library has also started an e-blast service to reach its patrons quickly about their many events and programs, Bankhead said. All users have to do is provide their name, library card number and email address to receive the notices. 

The library also offers other electronic resources to its patrons such as rich databases dealing with business and legal research, consumer research, genealogy and local history, as well as downloadable audio books and downloadable music.

The 14,000-square-foot library will be moving in early 2012 to a new 30,000-square-foot, eco-friendly building. The project is expected to cost the town of Los Gatos $12 million.