This is taken from the May-June Talking Book Topics and discusses an
interesting pilot program allowing for wireless book delivery to NLS
patrons.
NLS on the Move: The latest on our new initiatives
In July 2017, NLS launched a newsletter called “NLS on the Move” to keep
the staff in our national network of cooperating libraries updated on
the progress of pilot projects and other new initiatives. Selections
from this newsletter that may be of interest to NLS patrons are
reprinted in Talking Book Topics and Braille Book Review.
Next phase of wireless delivery pilot begins
Originally published February 22, 2018
Patron volunteers from almost forty network libraries around the country
are beginning the next phase of testing of wireless delivery using the
prototype device we call the MOCA (an acronym for MObile CArtridge device).
The MOCA—designed largely by NLS engineers—allows the volunteers to
access books and magazines from the NLS Braille and Audio Reading
Download (BARD) site that have been “pushed” to the device by network
library reader advisors. The selections are transferred to a cartridge
that can be played on an NLS digital talking-book machine or compatible
third-party player—and used again and again to receive more books and
magazines. The MOCA relies on public cellular networks, not on Wi-Fi.
Staff members at several network libraries tested the MOCA last fall and
then recruited patrons for the current pilot. “We asked each
participating library to identify three or four patrons who are avid
readers but don’t use BARD because they don’t have a computer or a
mobile device,” Education and Training Specialist Paula Bahmani said.
“We were also looking for patrons who were willing to try something new
and give us detailed feedback on their experience with wireless delivery.”
The first MOCAs were shipped to patrons from eight libraries in January;
more will go out in the coming weeks. When the pilot ends this summer,
NLS will evaluate the results and decide next steps.
“This pilot is intended to study the feasibility and cost of wireless
download for our patrons,” Director Karen Keninger said. “It’s one small
step of many that we’re taking toward planning the future of NLS.”
--
David Goldfield, Assistive Technology Specialist WWW.David-Goldfield.Com
