Sharjah Public Library (SPL) has launched its ‘Digital Library Collection’, providing 38,000 libraries and schools from around the world with access to 1,200 of the emirate’s eBooks and audiobooks.
In cooperation with ‘Overdrive’, a digital reading platform for education, the material is compatible with most mobile devices and PCs, giving instant global accessibility.
The electronic and audio books include recreational, professional, academic, educational, linguistic, scientific and medical titles, as well as new content which is regularly added to the site.
Sara Al Marzouqi, manager, SPL – a subsidiary of the Sharjah Book Authority, said, “Thanks to the latest digital technology, we are able to share our resources on a worldwide platform, allowing readers to use the excellent services SPL provides. This will provide a broader collection of titles accessible to an infinite number of students, researchers and readers who have internet access.”
The Digital Library Collection provides readers with relevant material using a valid virtual library card where members can borrow eBooks for 14 days and audiobooks for seven days. The collection is also characterised by a highly responsive and user-friendly website and mobile app.
Steve Potash, president and chief executive officer, Rakuten OverDrive, said, “Sharjah Public Library’s new digital collection is an outstanding extension of the library’s services, with convenient access to popular and relevant eBooks and audiobooks. OverDrive has enabled public libraries all over the world to reach readers of all ages, and we are excited to work with the Sharjah to offer the first digital collection in the UAE.”
