From the Director: KDL Leading the Way

Libraries are known for being forward thinking when it comes to constantly improving equal access to everything we offer.

KDL has taken the lead many times, from our nationally recognized What’s Next database used by libraries and library fans across the country, to our early literacy initiatives that serve as a model for many other library systems to our Local Indie collection designed specifically to promote self-published work.

Once again, we want to be at the leading edge. KDL and nine other U.S. library systems, including the New York Public Library, are partnering to apply for a grant to embark on a two-year project called “Library Simplified.”

It’s an effort to explore how libraries can better use new technology, including and especially eBooks, to build new audiences by reducing the barriers to use. We’re also going to examine why people don’t use the library, and look at how we might alter our policies so they will. And we intend to investigate the often confusing steps needed to download materials to various devices, and brainstorm ways to make it easier.

I’ll share more details later this year should the grant be awarded. I know my fingers are crossed.

Lance Werner, KDL Director