COLUMBUS—Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) has, for the second year, partnered with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) to offer transit customers instant access to eBooks and eAudiobooks – even without a library card. With the Read and Ride program, customers can use their smartphones to scan signs displayed inside COTA coaches (see example below) using its complimentary onboard Wi-Fi to access thousands of eBook and eAudiobook titles at no cost. Visit cota.com/readandride to learn more.
Additionally, COTA is offering customers a $5 Transit Credit to ride a COTA coach to the Columbus Book Festival, to be held at Main Library and Topiary Park on July 15-16. Passengers must sign up for this discounted fare on the COTA app by 12 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11. COTA will also provide a stationary coach for festivalgoers to enjoy books, programs and air conditioning.
About Read & Ride
COTA customers can log in with their existing library card information, or sign up for an instant digital card, giving them access to eBooks, eAudiobooks and digital magazines. Borrowed materials will automatically be returned after the 21-day lending period expires.
“We know that regularly visiting our 23 library locations can be a challenge for many,” said CML CEO Patrick Losinski. “We are thankful to our partners at COTA for helping us reach central Ohioans where they are and for helping us get library materials into the hands of more people in our community.”
“COTA is committed to connecting our customers to prosperity, and this partnership with Columbus Metropolitan Library brings valuable education resources onboard our more than 300 transit vehicles,” said COTA President/CEO Joanna M. Pinkerton. “We are grateful to CML for this partnership, and COTA is committed to making our incredible library system more accessible to our community.”
The Central Ohio Transit Authority is the region’s mobility solutions provider, driven each day to connect people to prosperity through innovation, dedication and teamwork. By utilizing technology and data, establishing community partnerships and applying sustainability principles, COTA provides equitable access to jobs, healthcare and education. Currently, 21 of Columbus Metropolitan Library’s 23 locations are located along COTA transit lines.
