Listen Up! Vermont

Encourage Patrons to Use the Holds Feature

2012-01-19T13:32:00.000-05:00

We've seen a post holiday spike in eBook downloads which is what we expected. It is important to note though that our average wait for holds is only 12 days. This isn't too bad considering the demand for the popular titles.

If your patron is asking about availability of titles remember to point out that some titles are not available due to publisher's restrictions and that using the Holds feature for titles we do own works wonderfully.

When an item is put on hold patrons are asked to give an email address. Hold notifications are sent to that email and folks have 3 days to download a title. Having several titles in one's Holds queue is a good practice.

MD

Overdrive Compatible Devices

2012-01-17T11:02:00.000-05:00

So many devices! Just what works? Be sure to refer to the Overdrive Devices page: http://www.overdrive.com/resources/drc/

Last week I had a patron who wanted to play MP3s through his GPS. While his GPS is an MP3 player, the management of the files couldn't be done. There is a way to test files, too. Just go down the page to the "Test a Device for Compatibility" section. MD

Brilliance Audio No Longer Available with Overdrive

2012-01-12T17:56:00.000-05:00

We've heard a lot in the news lately about publishers and eBook library lending. As you know Simon & Schuster and Macmillan do not provide eBooks for library lending at all; Harper Collins only allows a 26 checkout liscense model. Now we've just heard that Brilliance Audio is no longer working with Overdrive. Here is the announcement:
Effective January 31, 2012, as instructed by the publisher, BrillianceAudio will suspend the availability of all download audiobook titles for library purchase across all vendors. This change does not affect any titles currently in your library's catalog. You will not, however, be able to add any additional copies.

If you have questions or comments, you can reach BrillianceAudio directly at AskSales@brillianceaudio.com or 800.648.2312.

Please consider contacting BrillianceAudio to let them know how important providing downloadable audios for library lending is.

P.S. Guess who owns Brilliance Audio? Amazon. Read this article for this author's insights:
puhttp://www.readingreality.net/2012/01/brilliance-audio-amazon-and-the-great-un-downloading/

NEW LISTENUP! VERMONT COORDINATOR

2012-01-12T14:22:00.000-05:00

A big hearty welcome to Judy Russell, Director of the Fairlee Public Library, as our new ListenUp! Vermont Coordinator! Please be patient as she learns the ropes of this volunteer job.

As usual, direct your ListenUp!Vermont questions to vtaudiobooks@gmail.com

This is a really good time to be reminded that your library should be the front line for answering downloading technical questions. How do you ensure that you’re prepared to do so? Here are some tips for you and your staff:

Be educated on how to install necessary software/apps to download content (audio and eBooks) and how to download titles on to a variety of devices, including both PC and Mac computers.

Know the common downloading issues people have. For example, Windows Media Security Upgrade, incorrect time on their computer, mistakes in the browser’s history/cache, incorrectly typed-in barcodes or emails, using a variety of emails for holds notices, etc.

Use the help page on the www.ListenupVermont.org site for software help and trouble shooting many commonly asked questions.

Subscribe to ListenUp! Vermont blog (http://vtaudiobooks.blogspot.com/) and know that it can be searched for answers to common problems.

Know how to reset holds on a patrons account

Take webinars as they are offered and watch Overdrive’s education videos -- http://www.overdrive.com/learningcenter/viewnow.aspx Musts for everyone include: Just the basics, Patron Assistance, Kindle Demo, Real-Time Reports, and Going Mobile

Mary

Apologies for any cross postings

Going Mobile with Overdrive

2012-01-10T13:41:00.000-05:00

From Overdrive...
We’re giving our partners a sneak peek at OverDrive’s instructional videos for a few mobile platforms. Videos for other devices to follow! http://overdrive.com/goingmobilepreview.aspx

Important: Please do not link to these videos as they are in a developmental phase. They may be relocated or removed without warning, which will create broken links.

MD

Overdrive Online Support Form

2012-01-05T15:21:00.000-05:00

You should have all received an email from Overdrive today regarding support through Content Reserve.

If you've helped a patron with their tech support problem and think it is an Overdrive issue, you may now contact them through the Content Reserve Online Support form. After logging into Content Reserve, go to the Support page and then click on the button at the bottom of the page:

You'll then be taken to this online form to fill out and submit.
(*Of course we hope you've looked over the blog and tried all the usual fixes first. Usually a simple restart can fix most problems. :> )

2011-12-28T19:49:00.002-05:00

NY Times article: Publishers vs. Libraries: An E-Book Tug of War

2011-12-28T14:47:00.000-05:00

This article may be helpful to non-librarians in trying to explain how publishers affect how we offer eBooks.

One thing the article doesn't make clear is that libraries buy *licenses* to eBooks. And as we all know, with licenses, come restrictions.

Both librarians and patrons need to continue to let publishers know that we are an important market and that we serve a vital role in a title's success.

Happy New Year!
MD
Please excuse any cross postings.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/25/business/for-libraries-and-publishers-an-e-book-tug-of-war.html?_r=1

How to Pick an eReader

2011-12-16T12:44:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Are your patrons coming up to you with questions as to what eReader they should buy their loved ones for Christmas? If they are, this article may be of some help as it breaks down which ones are ideal for what:

http://mashable.com/2011/12/13/ereader-guide/

Happy Holidays All!

VF

Penguin eBook titles for lending to Kindle restored

2011-11-24T06:55:00.001-05:00

From OverDrive's Digital Library Blog:
November 23rd, 2011 Brianne Carlon

‘Get for Kindle’ for all Penguin eBooks in your catalog has been restored as of this morning. Penguin titles are available for check out by Kindle users and the Kindle format will be available for patrons who are currently on a waiting list for a Penguin title. Upcoming releases remain unavailable.

We apologize for the inconvenience this caused for your library and patrons.

At this time, no further information is available. We hope to share more details in the near future.

Penguin to halt library eBook lending

2011-11-21T18:27:00.001-05:00

From the Overdrive Digital Library Blog:

Last week Penguin sent notice to OverDrive that it is reviewing terms for library lending of their eBooks. In the interim, OverDrive was instructed to suspend availability of new Penguin eBook titles from our library catalog and disable “Get for Kindle” functionality for all Penguin eBooks. We apologize for this abrupt change in terms from this supplier. We are actively working with Penguin on this issue and are hopeful Penguin will agree to restore access to their new titles and Kindle availability as soon as possible.

From Penguin Group USA:

Penguin has been a long-time supporter of libraries with both physical and digital editions of our books. We have always placed a high value on the role that libraries can play in connecting our authors with our readers. However, due to new concerns about the security of our digital editions, we find it necessary to delay the availability of our new titles in the digital format while we resolve these concerns with our business partners. Penguin’s aim is to always connect writers and readers, and with that goal in mind, we remain committed to working closely with our business partners and the library community to forge a distribution model that is secure and viable. In the meantime, we want to assure you that physical editions of our new titles will continue to be available in libraries everywhere.

Device Chart

2011-11-10T13:20:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

With so many devices coming out on the eReader/tablet market recently, sometimes choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Thankfully there are charts out there that compare these devices side by side so that you can choose the right one for you.This link provides a nice comparison of the tablets out there, such as the iPad, Kindle Fire, and a couple different nook models. If you're looking for something a bit more advanced than an eReader, this chart is for you. The best part? All of these devices are compatible with Listen Up! Vermont eBooks!

VF

LUV Marc Records into SirsiDynix Symphony Workflows

2011-11-06T15:57:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

If your library has SirsiDynix Symphony Workflows you may find the following instructions helpful for loading MARC records from LUV into it. A big thank you to goes to Patti Hardenburg at the Lebanon Public Libraries in New Hampshire and Sheila Kearns here in Vermont. Thank you also to Ed Graves Library for putting this list together!

How to get MARC records from GMLC into SirsiDynix Symphony Workflows

1. Go to GMLC blog (http://vtaudiobooks.blogspot.com/) and select files from Box widget to download.

Download and save. This is a batch of MARC records. Ed has been doing this as time allows and keeping track of what has been downloaded.

3. Select “Add Field”

Save the file as both a .mrc file and a .txt file in case you are working from a computer without a MARC tool.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5. In Workflows, select “Utility” from the top menu, and then “MARC Import” from the left menu.

Select “OK” at the bottom to accept defaults.

In the “Source” field, attach your .mrc file that you’d like to upload, and type in “other.marc” into the “destination”.

Upload your MARC records. “Yes” the diskette is ready, “No” there are no more uploads.

Then go to the “Reports” tab at the top navigation, and “Schedule New Reports” from the left menu.

10.

Scroll down to “Load Bibliographic Records” and select “Set Up and Schedule” from the bottom, then

“Run Now,” then “Display finished reports”.

11.

If your path is configured right, you should be able to see the records that were imported. If it is not, open the .txt file you saved as a backup.

12.

Now go through the list of new records, the titles you have imported, and for each one, using the “Modify Title” tool under the Cataloging module, make changes to the 099 field of the Bibliographic record, and the Call number, Item ID, Home location, Item Cat 1 and Item Cat 2 in the Call Number/Item record to reflect the following local conventions:

Call Number (to match 099 field): DOWNLOADABLE EBOOK or DOWNLOADABLE AUDIO

Item ID: Assign number based on the date and then a consecutive digit. If a record was added 11/5/2011 and it was the 5^th item you added, the Item ID would be 11520115.

Item Type: DOWNLOAD

Home Location: DOWNLOAD

Item Cat 1: MP3, WMA, EPUB, or PDF (you can tell what the file type is by looking at the 020 field, the 856 field in the bib record, or the Listen Up! Vermont catalog)

Item Cat 2: ADULT or JUVENILE

Without a Net

2011-10-29T22:18:00.000-04:00

Hey Everyone!

I just wanted to let you know that Vermont's own library extraordinaire Jessamyn West's book Without a Net: Librarians Bridging the Digital Divide is now in the Listen Up! Vermont collection as an eBook. Its currently checked out, but be sure to place your holds soon so you don't have to wait to long to read it! You can find reviews of it here, including one from GMLC's president Mary Danko!

VF

OverDrive courses!

2011-09-29T11:34:00.000-04:00

There are 2 NEW great OverDrive courses you (or someone on your staff should take :>)

2011 OVERDRIVE EXPERIENCE - This is all about a fresh experience for digital users … smarter Help, faster searches, expanded collections, and simplified choices. Learn how you can guide excited users to a successful experience.

EBOOK EXPLOSION - This is the year of the eBook, and mobile devices, mobile apps and Kindle are hot. We'll showcase all the latest OverDrive features, services, and materials to help your library successfully navigate eBook lending.

Sign up here: http://www.overdrive.com/LearningCenter/registration.aspx

>>>
Also, remember there are many basic OverDrive courses you an take online, anytime!
http://www.overdrive.com/learningcenter/viewnow.aspx

Right now, completing some of these will get you into a raffle drawing.

NEWLY added course: Kindle Demo (15 min.)

MD

Link FAQ for Kindle

2011-09-27T12:31:00.000-04:00

You might find this link by the Oklahoma Metropolitan Library System helpful regarding Kindle FAQs:

http://www.metrolibrary.org/kindle/

MD

One in Six Americans Now Use E-Reader with One in Six Likely to Purchase in Next Six Months

2011-09-24T16:35:00.000-04:00

"While some may lament the introduction of the e-Reader as a death knell for books, the opposite is probably true. First, those who have e-Readers do, in fact, read more."

One in Six Americans Now Use E-Reader with One in Six Likely to Purchase in Next Six Months

MD

How to return a Kindle eBook early

2011-09-23T11:06:00.000-04:00

1. An eBook checked out on the Kindle is returned through Amazon. Go to www.Amazon.com and from the Kindle menu on the left, select "Manage Your Kindle."

2. Sign in to your Amazon account.

3. Selection "Actions" dropdown menu next to the book you want to return.
(Tip: the words "Public Library" will appear next to any library eBooks)

4.From the menu, select "Return this book."

5. Select "Yes" on the pop up to return the book.

6. After you return the book, it will still show in Your Kindle Library list. To remove it from the list, select "Actions" again and from the drop down menu select "Delete from library."

Adapted from: http://www.slideshare.net/WakeCountyPublicLibraries/how-to-return-a-kindle-ebook-early
MD

Library eBooks for the Kindle are here!

2011-09-22T13:56:00.000-04:00

And checking them out is as easy as pie!

You can check out an eBook for Kindles just like you check out all your OverDrive materials. When you get to the final step you'll be directed to click on "Get for Kindle" link. You will then be directed to Amazon.com to redeem your public library loan. You may be required to login to your Amazon.com account -- or create a new account -- if you're not already logged in. Choose to read the book on your Kindle device, free reading app, or Kindle Cloud Reader.

You can read borrowed Kindle books on any generation Kindle device or all free Kindle apps, as well as in your web browser with Kindle Cloud Reader.

Note: Public library books require an active Wi-Fi connection for wireless delivery to a Kindle device. Library books will not be delivered via your Kindle's 3G connection. If trying to send to a Kindle device and do not have an active Wi-Fi connection, you may instead choose to load your library book via USB. Both Mac and Windows users can manage Kindle content through a USB connection.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/?nodeId=200747550

MD

More Kindle/OverDrive questions answered!

2011-09-21T13:44:00.000-04:00

Some libraries in the US already are seeing Kindle compatibility. We expect ListenUp! Vermont to be updated by next week.

There will be no extra costs charged by OverDrive.

OverDrive Kindle books from your library are only permitted for the patron who checked out the title.

MD

Kindle compatibility!

2011-09-21T10:45:00.000-04:00

We’ve all been waiting to hear how Kindle will work with Overdrive.

The new update should be coming in about a week or so. Here are a few details about the update that we know so far:

The new update allows most existing OverDrive eBooks to be read on all Kindle devices or by using free Kindle apps on iPhone®, iPad®, Android™, and other mobile devices. (a few titles may not be compatible for a bit.)

All browsing, searching, and checkout of eBook titles will remain the same

at our website. When a user checks out a Kindle Book, a "Get for Kindle" link will be presented that opens a new window (or tab) at Amazon prompting the user to login to their Amazon account. Fulfillment will occur at Amazon's website.

There will now only be one format! Instead of ePub, PDF and Kindle formats folks will only see the one format: eBook. Each eBook unit will provide users access to all available eBook formats for that title. The user will choose the format compatible with their eReader or device.

For example, if Listen Up! Vermont has three total copies of The Help in any eBook format, The Help will show three copies, available for use with Kindle and all devices that support EPUB or PDF.

There are still a few questions we have and we’re waiting to get some answers. We’ll post when we know more.

For the complete press release go to: http://tinyurl.com/3t8froh

Apologies for any cross postings. MD

2012 agreement link not functioning correctly

2011-09-19T15:49:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,

We have received word that the link in your 2012 GMLC membership agreement is not working correctly. Please be patient as we work on resolving the problem. When the link is functional I will send you it via email.

Thanks again for your patience,

GMLC

Website Redirect

2011-09-16T14:30:00.000-04:00

Please note that if your patrons do not type in the full web address, www.listenupvermont.org, they may be redirected to a system error page. For now you must type in the "www." We are in the process of fixing this and hopefully will have it fixed soon. Thank you for your patience. MD

VOKAL Open House Thursday

2011-09-13T13:09:00.002-04:00

There will be a VOKAL Open House on Thursday, September 15 from 1-3pm at the Norwich Public Library in Norwich, VT for anyone interested in learning more about the VOKAL Koha system (a project of the Green Mountain Library Consortium). We will be giving a brief introduction about the VOKAL project, demonstrating the VOKAL Koha ILS and then have time for anyone with a laptop interested in trying it out.

We have had a very busy year developing the VOKAL consortium and are fast approaching our first anniversary in September of going live with the shared VOKAL Koha ILS system! Currently 21 libraries are circulating over 4,000 items/day in the VOKAL system. 6 libraries are scheduled through the end of the year to migrate into the system, 2 non-automated libraries are cataloging in preparation of go live this fall and a few others gearing up to begin their automation process into VOKAL. We have 12 migration slots open for 2012 and looking forward to welcoming more libraries into the VOKAL community!

If you would like more information about VOKAL, please visit our public site: https://sites.google.com/site/vokalvtpublic/. If you are unable to make the this open house, but would be interested in attending a virtual open house later this fall or winter to learn more about VOKAL Koha, please email the VOKAL Implementation Team at vokal_implementation_team@googlegroups.com.

Wendy Hysko

eBook Checkouts continue to rise

2011-09-03T12:46:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone!

I thought that you might like to know that our eBook checkouts have continued to rise since we added them in November. The chart above shows us just how much they have increased, going from 135 in November 2010 to 1442 in August 2011.

Keep up the great work everyone! Remember if you need some promotional materials, please let me know. Plenty of bookmarks and posters are still available!

VF