The Kobo Aura ONE: Borrowing library books is even easier on newest eReader
Rakuten Kobo recently made waves in the tech world when they announced their latest eReading device, the Kobo Aura ONE. One of the many new features readers are excited about is the ability to access library eBooks with a direct borrow option built into the device.
The Kobo Aura ONE enables users to borrow eBooks directly from their local library, in addition to purchasing through the Kobo Store, thanks to a collaboration between Kobo and OverDrive’s Development Teams (Full Disclosure: OverDrive and Rakuten Kobo are sister companies, with both being owned by Rakuten). Using OverDrive’s highly-rated APIs, the Kobo Aura ONE connects to library catalogs to provide a direct borrow and place a hold option for library eBooks. After purchasing the new device, a user can opt-in to connect with their public library and sign-in using an OverDrive account and their library card. The user will then be directed to the enhanced Kobo catalog to buy or borrow/place a hold on titles available through their local library. When the user selects a title to borrow, the title will be seamlessly synced and downloaded to the user’s device, and like all eBooks borrowed from the public library, will expire at the end of the lending period.
Rakuten Kobo was able to achieve this functionality by accessing OverDrive’s APIs, which enable developers to build a variety of user experiences within their apps and devices. These include the ability to search library catalogs, see content availability, borrow content, place holds and much more. Technology partners like Boopsie, SirsiDynix, TLC and many others have been using OverDrive’s APIs to build state of the art applications and websites for major libraries around the world.
The Kobo Aura ONE is the latest device that shows how OverDrive is working to make sure your users always have a connection to your library’s digital collection anytime, anywhere. For information on how your patrons can get started using the Kobo Aura ONE with your digital collection, please visit OverDrive Help’s getting started article.