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.
Results
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.
The full report can be accessed via Reading Sight
http://www.readingsight.org.uk/access_to_reading/finding_books/electronic_and_digital/ebooks/ebook_services_in_public_libraries/
Wendy Taylor
Librarian, Bibliographic Services
RNIB National Library Service
Far Cromwell Road
Bredbury
Stockport
SK6 2SG
Tel: 0161 355 2093
Email: [log in to unmask]
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