MCLS OverDrive Hits Over 2 Million Checkouts for 2019
Thanks in part to bibliophiles across the Midwest, the Midwest Collaborative for Library Services (MCLS) announced that they achieved a record-breaking two million digital book checkouts in 2019! It's a milestone for this library consortium consisting of 24 local libraries across Michigan, including Capital Area District Libraries. The accomplishment illustrates the continued growth and importance of library lending along with the creative ways libraries have served their communities with digital services.
The two million mark couldn't have been reached without the expert help of library staff across MCLS, who are key in promoting services and recommending books to readers.
That being said, we're taking a moment to brag about one person in particular.
At the top of the MCLS OverDrive page lies an enticing collection of books just waiting to be read. The titles and theme change twice a week. Each list is carefully selected and curated by Jessica T., (pictured right), a selection specialist for CADL. She's a reading superstar with a 6th sense for finding really, really good books (If you don't believe us, check out some of her recommendations on the Reader's Roundtable podcast.)
In addition to the reading lists, Jessica is the primary content curator for MCLS OverDrive. She even adds extra copies to reduce wait times for CADL members. CADL's community made up the largest percentage of circulation - coming in at 18%, or 333,203 books.
Way to read!
CADL and other MCLS libraries have been providing readers 24/7 access to eBooks and audiobooks for several years. Reader interest and usage has grown every year, reflecting popular trends and interests both locally and across the country.
What's the key to all that success?
"When the MCLS OverDrive group first began, libraries took a major gamble - we couldn't predict what would happen,” said Scott Garrison, Executive Director at Midwest Collaborative for Library Services. “Clearly, the gamble has paid off, and it is so gratifying to see how successful this program has been. Reaching the milestone of 2 million checkouts shows how greatly many, many users value 24x7 access to books from their libraries. Our OverDrive group has worked together really well for many years to make this possible. This achievement is a testament to how well they have worked to deliver for their users, on a large scale."
The top 5 eBook titles borrowed through MCLS’ digital collection in 2019:
1. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
2. Becoming by Michelle Obama
3. Educated by Tara Westover
4. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty
5. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
The top 5 audiobook titles borrowed through MCLS’ digital collection in 2019:
1. Becoming by Michelle Obama
2. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
3. Educated by Tara Westover
4. Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis
5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
All titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period and there are no late fees. Readers can also download titles onto Libby for offline use.
Borrow eBooks and audiobooks anytime, anywhere.
