Cleveland, OH – August 12, 2009 – OverDrive (www.overdrive.com), the leading global digital distributor of eBooks and audiobooks to libraries, announced today a joint marketing agreement with Sony Electronics, Inc., developer of the Sony Reader Digital Book (www.sony.com/reader).  OverDrive and Sony will cross-market OverDrive’s library network and the Reader, the leading eBook device that is compatible with industry standard eBook formats offered by libraries.

Thousands of libraries in the OverDrive network (http://search.overdrive.com) offer eBooks compatible with the Sony Reader.  Users simply browse or search their library website, check out their selected eBook with a valid library card, and download to a PC.  Once downloaded, the eBook may then be transferred to the Sony Reader via free Adobe Digital Editions software.

“Sony Reader customers will benefit from a whole new world of eBooks when they find and use the download services at their public library,” said David Burleigh, OverDrive’s Director of Marketing. “We’re excited to spread the word about downloads as well as our service’s compatibility with one of the leading eBook reading devices on the market today.”

“Because our Reader supports industry standard formats, we can continue to surprise and delight our customers with new options for premium content,” said Bob Nell, director of business development for Sony’s Digital Reading Business Division. “The library is a great way to experience your perennial favorites as well as new releases and best sellers for free.”

In addition to reaching new and existing patrons via the Sony and OverDrive network websites, OverDrive will train librarians on how to help patrons use the Sony Reader with their download service.  SonyStyle stores around the U.S. will also increase outreach efforts to reach new patrons with in-store messaging about the OverDrive download network of libraries.

OverDrive provides download services for more than 9,000 libraries, schools and retailers worldwide with support for PC, Mac®, and Sony® Reader, as well as the largest collection of iPod®-compatible audiobooks for libraries.  To see if your public library is a member of the OverDrive network, visit http://search.overdrive.com.  OverDrive also operates the Digital Bookmobile (www.digitalbookmobile.com), a high-tech 18-wheeler traveling North America on behalf of public libraries to raise awareness about free library downloads.

 

About OverDrive
OverDrive is a leading global digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, music, and video. We deliver secure management, DRM protection, and download fulfillment services for hundreds of publishers and thousands of libraries, schools, and retailers serving millions of end users. OverDrive provides the largest collection of iPod®-compatible audiobooks to libraries worldwide. Founded in 1986, OverDrive is based in Cleveland, OH. www.overdrive.com

Contact:
David Burleigh
OverDrive, Inc.
216-573-6886 x218
dburleigh@OverDrive.com

 

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