The Henry Bloom Noble Library is to be the first public library in the Isle of Man to offer an eBooks and audio books service. Due to be launched in the spring this year and representing a ?7,500 investment by Douglas Borough Council the bespoke software will be provided by leading eBooks digital distributor OverDrive and the service accessible via the Council’s website, www.douglas.gov.im. Compatible computers and mobile devices include PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod, Android and SonyReader. The download service is not compatible with Kindle portable readers which can only download content from Amazon. Borough librarian Jan Macartney said: ‘This is very much a first for the Henry Bloom Noble Library and for the Isle of Man. We see eBooks as a “virtual” library, one that is complementary to our existing services, offering customers a wider choice and attracting a new audience of all ages. eBooks is very much the way forward for people with busy schedules and constantly on the move as they can access the online library 24/7. OverDrive is a well-established and proven supplier of downloadable digital content already used by more than 50 libraries in the UK. The system is user-friendly and the browsing and check-out procedure very similar to that used for online shopping. At launch we shall have a catalogue of some 300 eBooks and, as the service attracts greater numbers of customers, we would hope to expand the range.’ Leisure service committee chairman Councillor Stephen Pitts said: ‘The Council is responding to consumer demand for a wider choice of online services. With the impending launch of eBooks this authority is leading the way in the Island by providing digital media in an easily transferable format.’ Membership of the Henry Bloom Noble Library is required to access the service. Adult non-members wishing to access the service will pay ?25 a year; over-60s ?12.50 and children 16 and under ?2. (Access free to children registered at schools in the Borough of Douglas; proof of registration required). The Henry Bloom Noble Library, 10 – 12 Victoria Street, Douglas. Telephone 696461. Ends