First library system in Washington to implement innovative eBook lending service

Beginning today, patrons of Sno-Isle libraries will have a simple, streamlined option for checking out and reading eBooks, thanks to the 3M Cloud Library eBook Lending Service and the Polaris Integrated Library System (ILS). The service combines digital content, in-library hardware, and apps for borrowing and reading eBooks, all within the library’s own online catalog, creating an unrivaled patron experience.

“This system makes it very easy for readers to browse our eBook collection, check out items, and read them on a wide variety of devices,” said Kendra Trachta, Deputy Director of Sno-Isle Libraries. “It is important to us that our eBook collection is appealing to readers of all ages and technology skill levels, and the 3M Cloud Library integrated into our catalog makes it simple for anyone to get started.”

The new system has several flexible features that give patrons choices for browsing and reading:

• Mobile device compatibility: The 3M Cloud Library app is available for download from the iTunes Store, Google Play and the NOOK Apps Storefront, and its eBooks are compatible with PCs, Macs, iPads, iPhones, iPod Touch, NOOK Tablets, Android devices, smartphones and Kobo, Sony and NOOK eReaders. Using these devices, patrons can browse, check out and read eBooks all without leaving the 3M Cloud Library app. To begin reading, patrons simply download the app, enter their library card number and select the titles of their choice from their library’s catalog.
• 3M Discovery Terminals: Patrons at the library can browse the catalog on these electronic kiosks with an intuitive touch-based interface.

The technology behind the 3M Cloud Library and its integration with Polaris is designed to give libraries maximum flexibility. Sno-Isle patrons will experience the benefits of the integration with Polaris when they can browse both print and digital items in the library’s collection from the same catalog—a feature not offered by all eBook systems. With this capability, readers can browse the collection, check out and place holds on eBooks without ever leaving their familiar library catalog. eBook hold notifications will come directly from the catalog, using the notification preferences patrons have already selected. Librarians will also experience the time-saving benefits of receiving cataloging records in real time, without having to manually import MARC files, and their circulation reports will reflect the digital circulation as well as their print circulation.

“This system is specifically designed to be the easiest eBook platform for both patrons and library staff,” said Tom Mercer, marketing manager, 3M Cloud Library. “Now readers can spend less time navigating the technology and more time reading.”

“Both 3M and Polaris set out to deliver an eBook system that put control of digital content back into the library’s hands,” said Bill Schickling, president and CEO, Polaris Library Systems. “In doing this, we jointly created a system that keeps the patron inside the library’s catalog and provides them with a seamless eBook lending experience.”

The Sno-Isle Libraries join more than 1,000 libraries across the country that now offer the 3M Cloud Library. With this system, these libraries have access to a growing catalog of titles from more than 300 publishers. The Sno-Isle Libraries are the second library system to go live with the integration of the 3M Cloud Library into their Polaris ILS. Several other libraries are scheduled to launch this integration in the coming months.

For more information about the 3M Cloud Library eLending system, visit 3M.com/Cloud.

3M is a trademark of 3M.
NOOK, NOOK Tablets and NOOK Apps are trademarks of BarnesandNoble.com LLC.
iPad, iPod Touch, iPhone and iTunes Store are trademarks of Apple, registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google, Inc.
Kobo is a trademark of Shortcovers, Inc. Sony is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

About 3M Library Systems
The global leader in library innovation for more than 40 years, 3M is committed to helping libraries connect with the diverse and rapidly evolving communities they serve. 3M’s eBook lending, security, and productivity solutions give librarians the flexibility to spend more time doing what they do best – helping people. Visit www.3M.com/us/library and follow us on Twitter (@3MLibrary), Facebook and Pinterest.

About 3M
3M captures the spark of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of ingenious products. Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a never-ending stream of powerful technologies that make life better. 3M is the innovation company that never stops inventing. With $30 billion in sales, 3M employs 84,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com or follow @3MNews on Twitter.

About Polaris Library Systems
Polaris Library Systems earns the highest customer satisfaction ratings by focusing on one goal: helping librarians better serve their communities. A true technology partner, Polaris uses a deep understanding of libraries and patrons to thoughtfully design products and services that meet today’s most challenging needs. Over 2,000 public, private and academic libraries count on Polaris automation platforms to maximize time and resources, reduce costs, boost productivity and improve patron satisfaction every day. Polaris is dedicated to providing unique, reliable solutions that empower libraries to build better patron relationships and a productive, bright future. Visit www.polarislibrary.com for more information.

For 3MEmily Finley, 612-342-9732Karwoski & Courage Public Relationse.finley@creativepr.comorPolaris Library SystemsChristina Sorbello, 315-634-4572christina.sorbello@polarislibrary.comor3M Public RelationsConnie Thompson, 651-733-8914http://www.3m.com/presscontact