Maplewood Library drops Kindle e-reader support

I'm very disappointed to report that the Maplewood Library partner BCCL has dropped Kindle e-reader loans. Im not sure what to do now as I really depended on that service. Anyone have suggestions? Thanks!

Wow, I was thinking of getting a Kindle to take advantage of that.  Why did they do that?

Kindle elink readers will no longer be supported.   Kindle fire 2nd generaton or newer will still be supported.  

https://www.bccls.org/digital_...

Why are we making this switch?

eBCCLS is continuously looking for opportunities to provide better services at a better value for BCCLS patrons. We have heard your complaints that Overdrive is not easy to use. CloudLibrary, on the other hand, offers an app-based user experience that makes it easy to download the titles you are looking for. BCCLS has been a customer of Overdrive and cloudLibrary for over 4 years, and people like you have consistently told us that cloudLibrary is much easier to use. Additionally, cloudLibrary will allow your library to purchase content with its own funding, to augment the eBCCLS central collection, so that you will be able to borrow popular titles sooner. CloudLibrary also integrates with our library catalog, so you can check out and place holds on items from within the BCCLS Catalog.

What devices are compatible with cloudLibrary?

Supported devices:

• Android devices (phones & tablets)
• iOS devices (phones, tablets, & iPod Touch)
• Laptop and Desktop Computers (Mac, Windows, & ChromeOS)
• Nook ereaders and tablets
• Kobo ereaders
• Kindle Fire (2nd generation or newer)*

*Will I be able to use my Kindle eInk reader?

Unfortunately, no. Amazon does not support the ePub format used by the cloudLibrary platform, and Overdrive currently has an exclusive deal with Amazon to support the Kindle ebook format.

If you work in New York City, you can get a NYPL library card and check out their eBooks online. They are compatible with both Kindle and Epub formats. Other than that, I don't know of any alternatives. 

Please note this is not a decision being made by the Maplewood Library but by BCCLS, I believe.

That's disappointing.  I really prefer reading on my Kindle Paperwhite than on phone or computer.  I think it's easier on the eyes.

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This. The Fire bothers my eyes   

sac said:

That's disappointing.  I really prefer reading on my Kindle Paperwhite than on phone or computer.  I think it's easier on the eyes.

I passed this concern on to the Maplewood Library staff on the off chance that there might be a work around; but, I doubt there is one short of using a different [compatible] device.  I will report back if/when I get a reply.

Thanks, Joan, but I've already corresponded with library staff and there is no plan to rectify. Interestingly, South Orange does have access for Kindle e-reader loans.

joan_crystal said:

I passed this concern on to the Maplewood Library staff on the off chance that there might be a work around; but, I doubt there is one short of using a different [compatible] device.  I will report back if/when I get a reply.

Maybe ask Amazon to provide support for the universal epub format instead of their proprietary one.

So one work-around would be to get a REBL sticker so that you can borrow from South Orange.

I guess I'm most annoyed that MPL didn't announce the change/loss of service. I had no idea that the end was nigh when I went to borrow another book. May 15 was the cut-off date.

zucca said:

So one work-around would be to get a REBL sticker so that you can borrow from South Orange.

I'm afraid that won't work. SOPL  e-books are part of overdrive consortium and they are not available with a ReBl library cards

librarylady said:

zucca said:

So one work-around would be to get a REBL sticker so that you can borrow from South Orange.

I'm afraid that won't work. SOPL  e-books are part of overdrive consortium and they are not available with a ReBl library cards

So much for my brilliant idea (or, at least simple solution).

zucca said:

So one work-around would be to get a REBL sticker so that you can borrow from South Orange.

Not sure if that would work for ebooks.  I think REBL limits you to materials available on the shelves.

bets said:

I guess I'm most annoyed that MPL didn't announce the change/loss of service. I had no idea that the end was nigh when I went to borrow another book. May 15 was the cut-off date.

Change was announced.  Information has been on the BCCLS website for some time (above linked webpage gives prospective March 30th date). E-mail blasts have been sent out to those Maplewood library users who have signed up for these notifications. informational fliers have been available at member libraries, including Maplewood.   

Here is the reply I received from Maplewood library staff.  Unfortunately, it agrees with what Bets was told when she inquired.

"Hi Joan,
 
Thanks very much for passing this along.  We are sorry it is causing consternation, and appreciate your responding--all the information you posted was correct and helpful.  I'm afraid we do not know of a workaround, short of using a different, compatible device, as you said.  As Max said, this is a BCCLS decision."