Queens Public library smashes ebook records

Students participated in an activity at the Jackson Heights branch of the Queens Public Library last summer. Eagle file photo by Victoria Merlino

By Rachel Vick

Even though their doors are closed, the Queens Public Library is still helping borough residents curl up with a good book during this stressful time.

Ebook checkouts have skyrocketed since the QPL officially closed its sites to the public on March 16.  Users checked out 40,633 ebooks — which can be read on Kindles, iPads and other devices — in the second half of March, the library said. That is 11,893 more than before COVID-19 restrictions took effect.

Circulation reached an all-time high this month, as the combined ebook and multimedia materials surpassed the previous record, set in March of last year, by more than 7,000 checkouts, QPL said.

Multimedia offerings include audiobooks, music, movies and educational lectures. They have ordered thousands of new ebooks, continuing to facilitate access to literature, with more to come. 

In addition to ebooks, the library is also streaming a number of virtual programs. 

Live storytime sessions are streamed on the QPL Facebook page and quarantine DJ sets with hip hop and old school favorites spin on vinyl every Tuesday on Instagram. They have also opened up their Mail-a-Book program to the general public, allowing access to programs like art history lectures, tai chi programs and health chats that are usually only available for older or homebound patrons.

The virtual reference desk remains open weekdays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. to answer questions and offer guidance for all remote patrons,  A QPL eCard is available for anyone who wants access to their online resources.