OverDrive Media Stations create engaging, comfortable digital experience

Children explore eBooks on an OverDrive Media Station at KCLS' Federal Way 320th Library branch Since OverDrive Media Station (OMS) launched in a pilot program more than a year ago as a way to introduce your eBook catalog, libraries that have implemented the touchscreen stations have shared stories of success and excitement. Now live in 50 libraries in five countries, OMS enables readers to browse eBooks, audiobooks and other media on a touchscreen in your library, school, or location of your choosing.   The OMS builds awareness among readers who are already at your library but perhaps don't know much about your digital collection. It is a simple, intuitive way for readers to get to know your OverDrive catalog and browse titles, read samples, and send a checkout or hold to their favorite device via QR code, email or text. It also helps to get readers comfortable with and enthusiastic about the technology, and to increase circulation of digital titles.   King County Library System (KCLS) in Washington implemented their OMS on September 27, 2013 at their Federal Way 320th Library branch on its reopening day. The community had outgrown their building after 40+ years, and an updated facility was rebuilt in its place. Part of that modernization included new computers, electronic media, and the new touchscreen OverDrive Media Station.   "The OMS has been really well received by our patrons. It's rarely unoccupied," said Jennifer Simon Halai, Librarian, Virtual Library Services at KCLS. "During the day, adults are the dominant users, but after school and in the evenings, it's the kids and teens who are engaging with it, usually with a smartphone or tablet in hand."   With an ad campaign running last month alongside the OMS implementation, KCLS has seen a 2 percent increase in eBook checkouts in the first month after installing the OMS, which is slightly above average growth for the year so far. Halai said they have seen a definite increase in engagement with the OMS as a key feature in the new library.   "My favorite thing about the OMS is the sampling option. It's such a dynamic experience on a large screen," Halai said. "Once patrons have seen it demonstrated on a large screen, they are much more comfortable doing it on their own smaller device."   The OMS pilot program will continue through the end of this year. Keep an eye out for our announcement in Q1 2014; we will be communicating when OMS will be available for all libraries and schools.   Heather Tunstall is the Public Relations Specialist at OverDrive.

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