May 20, 2011 04:34 pm EDT

3M announces Cloud Library e-book lending service for '21st century' libraries

Both Amazon and Sony have already hopped aboard the e-book library lending train and now, it looks like they'll have to make room for 3M, as well. Yesterday, the company announced a new Cloud Library e-book lending service that will allow users to browse and borrow digital books directly from their iPads, Nooks and Android-based tablets. Under the program, 3M will outfit local libraries with its own software, hardware and e-book collection, which bibliophiles will be able to access via special apps. The company is also planning to install so-called Discovery Terminal download stations in libraries, allowing visitors to leaf through the collection from a touch-based interface. Thus far, both Random House and IPG have signed on to the initiative, though licensing details remain murky. There's also no word on when or where the service will launch, but 3M's Discovery Terminal and iPad app will be on display next month in New Orleans, at the American Library Association's Annual Conference. Full presser after the break.

Continue reading 3M announces Cloud Library e-book lending service for '21st century' libraries

3M announces Cloud Library e-book lending service for '21st century' libraries originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 May 2011 12:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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