Amigos Library Services Receives TSLAC/IMLS Grant Extending SimplyE Functionality

*For immediate release August 30, 2018*
Contact Tracy Byerly, Chief Programs Officer, Amigos Library Services, byerly@amigos.org, Office: 972-340-2893
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Dallas, TX – Amigos Library Services (Amigos) recently received a grant Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) and Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Funding from this grant allows Amigos to extend the functionality of the SimplyE app.

SimplyE, an open source app, was initially developed by the New York Public Library and currently enjoys support by public libraries, consortia, and state libraries. The goal of SimplyE is to make it easy for patrons to borrow and read e-books (and ultimately e-resources) from libraries.

Amigos Library Services will extend the functionality of the mobile app to computers and laptops by creating a web-based service that includes functionality and an interface like the one used by the SimplyE app, making it more accessible to those that do not use mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets or those that prefer to use their library's public computers. In addition, these changes will aid academic library patrons as that functionality comes to fruition.
Round Rock Public Library (TX) will be partnering with Amigos by providing feedback on the designs and functionality, as well as piloting the web-based service.

"I see SimplyE as a service that will simplify the e-book experience for library patrons. The app currently facilitates e-book reading for public library patrons, but programming for e-audio functionality is well on its way. Amigos will extend the functionality of the app to include devices that are web-based. This will broaden the app's accessibility, provide an expanded platform for its upcoming academic functionality, and will extend its use to Google Chromebooks," said Christine Peterson, Engagement and Emerging Technologies Coordinator for Amigos.

This project is funded by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. (2019)

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About Amigos Library Services
Amigos is one of the largest consortia of libraries and cultural heritage institutions in the United States. For more than 40 years, Amigos members have collaborated to obtain affordable services and shared library resources and knowledge. Through membership in Amigos, libraries collectively gain access to the latest innovations and services in the library community; pursue opportunities for continuing professional education; and leverage their buying power. This collaboration strengthens each member’s ability to serve and lead its community in the creative and effective use of information resources.

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