Major Publishers Contribute to Open eBooks Initiative

"Just launched, the Open eBooks initiative is described by the Digital Public Library of America as new program and e-reader app that will make thousands of popular, top-selling ebooks available to low-income children free of charge. The initiative offers access to quality digital content, including a catalog of ebooks valued at more than $250 million. At a 'Kids’ Town Hall' held by the White House in April 2015, US President Barack Obama announced a nongovernmental ebooks effort in support of the ConnectED Initiative—an effort designed to provide youth with access to high-quality digital learning tools. Since its launch, more than 20 million students reportedly have been connected to high-speed broadband in their schools and libraries, and millions more are said to be taking advantage of its free private sector resources. Open eBooks aims to complement digital infrastructure by providing an opportunity for children to have a world-class e-library accessible at home. The Open eBooks program is made possible by a coalition of literacy, library, publishing, and technology partners. The Digital Public Library of America (DPLA), First Book, and The New York Public Library (NYPL)—with content support from digital books distributor Baker & Taylor—created the app, curated the ebook collection, and developed a system for distribution and use. Financial support has been provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) with content contributions from major publishers, thanks to the contributions of the ebook platform delivery service, AXIS 360 from Baker & Taylor ..."