Des Moines, Iowa – September 11, 2012 – The Des Moines Public Library is now the first in Iowa to introduce the 3M Cloud Library eBook Lending Service, bringing Central Library patrons access to digital content, in-library hardware, and apps for borrowing and reading eBooks.
"We have seen the demand for eBooks increase dramatically in the past years, and we're excited to introduce this system to library visitors," said Dawn Work-MaKinne, supervising librarian at Des Moines Public Library. "Not only does it give us access to thousands of titles, but it is also simple to use – which is so important with any library technology."
The 3M Cloud Library system allows patrons to browse an electronic catalog—which Des Moines will build from the more than 300 publishers working with 3M—check out books, and read on the device of their choice:
- 3M Discovery Terminals: Patrons at the library can browse the catalog on these electronic kiosks with an intuitive touch-based interface.
- 3M eReaders: Content from the Cloud Library can be synced with easy-to-use 3M eReaders that can be checked out like any other lendable materials.
- Mobile devices: The service's eBooks are compatible with PCs, iPads, Nooks, and Androids. Using their personal devices, patrons can browse, check out and read eBooks all without leaving the 3M Cloud Library app.
"We are proud that 3M Cloud Library provides a new reading experience for patrons of the Des Moines Public Library," said Tom Mercer, 3M digital library marketing manager. "3M has a long history of helping libraries innovate to provide patrons with new technologies and a superior user experience, and we look forward to continuing to support the library community in Des Moines."
Along with the Des Moines Public Library, more than 70 library systems across the country now offer the 3M Cloud Library to patrons including Estes Valley, Colo.; Johnson County, Ind.; Liverpool, N.Y.; East Albemarle Regional, N.C.; Baltimore County, Md.; Wauconda, Ill.; Indian Trails, Ill. and Stanislaus, Calif. With the 3M Cloud Library System, these libraries have access to a growing catalog of more than 200,000 titles.
For more information about the 3M Cloud Library eLending system, visit 3M.com/Cloud.
About 3M Library Systems
3M Library Systems is committed to helping libraries thrive by providing cutting edge technologies including RFID, automated materials handling (AMH), self check and security solutions, as well as our latest innovation 3M Cloud Library, the fastest growing eBook Lending Service. Finding the technology solution that is right for each unique library, 3M's promise is to deliver a long term partnership that is built to exceed expectations. Follow us on Twitter @3MLibrary or visit www.3M.com/us/library.
About 3M
3M captures the spark of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of ingenious products. Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a never-ending stream of powerful technologies that make life better. 3M is the innovation company that never stops inventing. With $30 billion in sales, 3M employs 84,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com or follow @3MNews on Twitter.
About Des Moines Public Library
The Des Moines Public Library is the largest public library in Iowa and offers six convenient locations with five recently remodeled neighborhood branch libraries and an impressive Central Library that opened in 2006. Last year, the Des Moines Public Library served more than 1.3 million people, provided nearly 4,000 programs, and checked out 1.4 million titles.
