Photo: Andrey Popov | Dreamstime.com

Boston brings digital libraries to bus stops

15 May 2023

by Sarah Wray

A new Boston Public Library (BPL) pilot programme means riders at 20 bus stops in the city can access free digital content this spring and summer.

Through the “Browse, Borrow, Board” scheme, which is also in partnership with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), riders can scan a QR code to access audiobooks, e-books, and digital newspapers and magazines.

No library card or special app is required to use the service as the city said its primary goal is to introduce riders to the library’s offerings and make resources accessible.

“Our investment in our city’s public transit riders has taken a variety of forms, from eliminating fares for three crucial bus routes to expanding the bus lane network,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.

“This pilot programme builds on our efforts to make public transportation more enjoyable, while also connecting our residents to the resources the Boston Public Library already offers. Thank you to the BPL and the MBTA for their continued partnership.”

Image: Boston Public Libraries

The Library has focused on items that are easy to browse for riders on the go, including poetry, short stories, and short audiobooks, as well as a selection of bestsellers and titles for children and teenagers. The newspaper and magazine content includes 7,000 titles from over 125 countries and more content will be added throughout the summer.

“We share in the value that knowledge and transportation could both be ‘Free to All.’ This opportunity connects public library and public transit offerings around learning and movement in our city, allowing us to better serve our residents,” said David Leonard, President of the Boston Public Library.

Passenger survey

The pilot came about following a survey carried out with public transit riders last year by a summer fellow in the Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics, the city’s civic research and design team.

“Bus riders in particular indicated that access to the BPL’s digital offerings would be ‘very likely’ to bring delight to their commutes, and we are so pleased to see the pilot come together to serve them this summer,” said Maddie Webster, Program Manager in the Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics.

Until the end of August, blue slip-proof decals with QR codes are on sidewalks at 20 bus stops and MBTA-owned busways throughout the city, including at eight stops serving the fare-free bus routes.

“The MBTA continues to seek out innovative ways to improve our riders’ experience on the T, and we’re proud to partner with the BPL and the city on this exciting initiative that expands the digital reach of the Library’s offerings to our riders,” said Phillip Eng, MBTA General Manager and CEO.

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