Amigos Library Services Receives Third Texas Grant for SimplyE

For Immediate Release August 29, 2019
Contact Tracy Rochow Byerly, Chief Programs Officer, 800-843-8482, ext. 2893, byerly@amigos.org
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Dallas, TX – Amigos Library Services recently received a third Cooperation Grant from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC). Funding from this grant will help public libraries support their local content generators through use of the SimplyE service, as well as create and disseminate customizable SimplyE promotional and instructional materials.

"Amigos has been fortunate to receive three grants from the Texas State Library & Archives Commission to support development of the SimplyE service. Our hope is that the current one will make it easier for libraries to promote and use SimplyE with their patrons," said Christine Peterson, Engagement & Emerging Technologies Coordinator.

Developed by libraries for libraries, SimplyE is an open source e-reading platform that simplifies a library users’ experience finding, borrowing and reading e-books and listening to audiobooks from the library. Developed using ReadersFirst principles, it makes borrowing e-books and audiobooks from a library quick and easy.

With two main components, this project focuses on supporting SimplyE at the local level. One component will allow libraries to display their own ebooks alongside their commercial ebook collections, allowing integration and documentation of open access, partial access, and digital rights management (DRM) protected files. In the second component, customizable promotional and instructional materials will be created and shared, with the goal of helping libraries implement SimplyE and patrons to understand how it works.

Alan Kornblau, President and CEO of Amigos Library Services added "SimplyE is a one-stop shopping destination for a public library’s collection of eBooks and eAudiobooks. It is a wonderful service and we are grateful to TSLAC for supporting its development and implementation."

Libraries interested in SimplyE should email Amigos Library Services (SimplyE@amigos.org) for more information or attend one of the scheduled webinars.

This project is made possible from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, Grant Number COP-20001 (2020)
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About Amigos Library Services
Amigos is one of the largest consortia of libraries and cultural heritage institutions in the United States. For more than 40 years, Amigos members have collaborated to obtain affordable services and shared library resources and knowledge. Through membership in Amigos, libraries collectively gain access to the latest innovations and services in the library community; pursue opportunities for continuing professional education; and leverage their buying power. This collaboration strengthens each member’s ability to serve and lead its community in the creative and effective use of information resources.