Big eBook Project Launched in Ohio

The Ohio eBook Project has been launched, with sixteen member libraries including the State Library of Ohio, three academic libraries, one school library, and eleven public libraries.

Created by the State Library of Ohio, the Ohio eBook Project is the first of its kind developed by a state library. The Project creates a multi-type library consortium that allows Ohio libraries to affordably obtain a digital book collection. Visit the Ohio eBook Project online.

The Ohio eBook Project's collection includes bestsellers, classics, fiction and non-fiction, from popular authors and leading publishers. Patrons of member libraries can download free software from the project's web site and then check out and download digital books. A valid library card from an Ohio eBook Project member library is required to check out eBooks and digital audio books.

The Ohio eBook Project is funded in part by Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services to the State Library of Ohio.

The State Library of Ohio contracted with OverDrive, Inc.; paid the initial start-up fee; purchased digital audio books; and will pay the monthly maintenance fee for the project. Member libraries of the Ohio eBook Project pay a minimal set-up fee; procure a SIP license from their vendor; and contribute one percent of their library's print book, monograph and AV collection budget to the Ohio eBook Project's digital book collection. All member libraries choose the books they contribute to the project.

The Ohio eBook Project is open to all libraries in Ohio (academic, public, school, and special) that meet the membership requirements. The Project will be open for enrollments again in November and December of 2005.