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Peterborough libraries selected for public library e-lending pilot

The Publishers Association (PA) and the Society of Chief Librarians (SCL) have announced the launch of a yearlong pilot for e-lending in public libraries. The fantastic news is that Vivacity Peterborough Libraries has been selected as one of the four library authorities participating in the trial

This means that Peterborough Library customers will be able to access a list of over 1,000 titles which are not currently available in other authorities for e-lending, including new releases which will be phased in during the pilot year. Loan periods will be for either seven-day or 21-day periods.

The aim of the pilot is to carry out real-time, real-world research into the impact of e-book lending in public libraries on authors, publishers and on the library service so that a suitable and sustainable model for all stakeholders can be found.

The four library authorities participating in the pilots are Vivacity Peterborough, Newcastle City Council, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, and Derbyshire County Council.

A grant of £40,000 to fund the research has been made by the British Library Trust to the Society of Chief Librarians, who in turn are partnering with The PA on the project. Following a competitive tender MTM-London has been appointed as the research company.

Janene Cox, SCL President, said: ‘We are delighted to announce these pilots. This is the first step in what will hopefully be an excellent result for libraries as we are able to offer more e-book loans across the country.’

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