SimplyE - E-Read Texas
E-Read Texas
E-Read Texas, a program from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC), brings electronic books and audiobooks to Texans served by small community libraries in all parts of the state. E-Read Texas brings together library ebooks, audiobooks, and access to the SimplyE application to make it possible for all Texans to access electronic content from their public library.
TSLAC has licensed over 10,000 ebook and audiobook titles available statewide for libraries that participate in the E-Read Texas program and make content available to patrons through SimplyE.
For qualifying public libraries, TSLAC underwrites the costs of SimplyE hosting by Amigos Library Services.
Amigos Library Services has partnered with the Texas State Library & Archives Commission (TSLAC), which guides and funds this service. The Texas State Library and Amigos Library Services provide free implementation, technical support, and training for E-Read Texas participants.
Eligible Public Libraries
Texas public libraries serving a population of up to 100,000 users are eligible to join E-Read Texas. As of October 2021, public libraries serving a population of more than 100,000 users, but with electronic collection expenditures of less than $100,000 per year are also eligible to join. Annual submission of the Texas Public Libraries Annual Report is also required in order to participate in E-Read Texas.
As of August 2021, Amigos has implemented SimplyE for over 170 public libraries from all parts of Texas.
Joining E-Read Texas
Libraries interested in participating in the E-Read Texas program will need to download two forms and return them to technologysolutions@amigos.org to begin their application process:
- The library participation agreement outlines the responsibilities of Amigos Library Services and the participating library.
- The library implementation form provides information about the library’s technical systems and content providers.
Learn more about E-Read Texas
For information about upcoming training sessions, the E-Read Texas collection, and promotional materials available for use in Texas libraries, visit the TSLAC E-Read Texas site.
Questions about E-Read Texas
Questions about E-Read Texas may be directed to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (texshare@tsl.texas.gov) or Amigos Library Services (technologysolutions@amigos.org).