One book has the power to positively change someone’s life. Now imagine hundreds of books, delivered to readers anywhere with no barriers. That’s the power of Pop Up Library, Baker & Taylor’s newest tools for getting more books to more readers.

Pop Up Library is a small network device with one dedicated purpose—to instantly deliver ebooks to readers wherever libraries choose. Libraries that use Pop Up Library are able to extend the reach of their digital collection across the community so material is accessible to all. By working with community partners, businesses, government offices, and more, Pop Up Library creates a space for readers anywhere.

“This is brand new technology in the library market space,” says Michael Bills, director of sales and marketing for Baker & Taylor’s digital products. “Every library wants to engage with more of their community, but libraries don’t have limitless funding. Pop Up Library is a low cost way to achieve greater engagement and create a larger presence in a library’s community.”

For years, libraries have come up with inventive ideas to reach more individuals within their communities. Bookmobiles, temporary branch locations, and book vending machines have all been employed with great success, but each requires significant capital investment. No other remote library program is as affordable and spotlights a library’s digital collection quite like Pop Up Library.

A group of libraries around the world worked with Baker & Taylor as early adopters of the Pop Up Library program, including Atlanta-Fulton County, Broward County, and Evanston Public Library. Baker & Taylor officially launched the Pop Up Library program at the ALA’s Midwinter Conference in Seattle this January, and demand from libraries everywhere was immediate.

“One of the reasons we’re a 200-year-old company is that we listen to the customers we serve, and we provide products and services that will help them be successful,” adds Bills. “The central role that libraries play in boosting literacy is one of the greatest accomplishments of the institution. We’re proud to be helping libraries achieve this calling.”

Here are five questions (and answers) about this unique and innovative program:

1. How does it work? A library partners with a local business or government organization in its community (like a coffee shop or a hospital waiting room) and sets up an easy-to-use Wi-Fi hotspot in that location. When individuals join the free Wi-Fi network branded with the library’s logo, they’ll be given instant access to the library’s digital collection through Axis 360.
2. What’s required for users? Absolutely nothing. No no app downloading is required to access eBooks from a Pop Up Library location. Use a smart phone device or computer to connect for free and begin reading directly within the browser; readers can even save the book for later within the browser’s cache during the duration of the library’s check out period.
3. How does Pop Up Library foster awareness for the library? When browsing the Pop Up Library system, a message will appear for readers encouraging them to sign up for a library card and check out the other resources their local library has to offer. Baker & Taylor will also provide marketing materials to help inform the public about Pop Up Libraries.
4. What is the benefit for libraries? For years, libraries have tried introducing new ways of engagement, even with limited funding resources. With Pop Up Library, more patrons are introduced to the library thus increasing circulation and membership numbers. And of course, fostering a community full of lifelong readers is the ultimate goal of any library. Pop Up Library helps push that mission forward.
5. Where do I sign up? For libraries interested in getting more information, contact your sales representative through Baker & Taylor.

We’re excited to work with you! For more information contact your sales consultant, email btinfo@baker-taylor.com or call 800-775-1800.