Downloadable ebooks

Because of "life on the info desk" I did know about these resources. Patrons at public libraries are increasingly aware of the existence of these resources. However delivering the resources to the patron often is problematic. A quick response at the info desk could be, "just go to net library, open an account, select a title and follow the directions to download" is similar to giving a bike riding novice a bike, telling them that physics is on their side, and it will all come together once they push off. Netlibrary resources, Project Gutenberg and similar resources are amazing, and will continue to grow. The issue is marketing the product to the public, and providing hands on instruction. I know that is in the works at MCPL, and hope the initiative is expanded to all staff and then to patron workshops.