AMZN: Amazon.com Announces Library Processing for Public and Academic Libraries Across the United States

Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced it has launched Library Processing, enabling its thousands of library customers to receive Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) records and have books and other media they order from Amazon.com fitted with Mylar jackets, barcodes, and other essential preparation services. This end-to-end processing service will significantly reduce library overhead costs and decrease the time from "box to shelf" so that library patrons will have faster access to newly ordered media titles.

"Libraries already use Amazon.com when they need fast and reliable delivery of products at competitive prices, but our library customers have told us they would like Library Processing in order to better serve their patrons," said Greg Greeley, vice president of books, magazines and corporate accounts. "Amazon.com is proud to offer libraries this seamless, end-to-end processing service which will make it even easier for libraries to shop with us."

When library customers order products from Amazon.com, they will have the option of including MARC records, labels and barcodes as part of their order. Amazon.com library customers will also have the option of having hardcover books delivered with Mylar jacketing - a protective covering used by most libraries - taped over the jackets. Each of these services can be tailored to meet the needs of each library, and each library will be able to manage their processing profile online.

"Now, more than ever, libraries are under enormous pressure to meet the increased demand of library services while doing so with less money and resources," said Julie Brinkley of the Dauphin County Library in Pennsylvania. "We're very eager to have Amazon.com provide Library Processing. It will be a great time-saver for the library system."

To create a "Processing Profile," a customer simply needs to go to http://www.amazon.com/processing. From there, they can complete a web-based form to provide all the information Amazon.com needs to tailor their processing. Once a library creates a profile, the library can decide which orders they want to apply processing to.

Over the last year, Amazon.com has introduced several new library-specific features including the Librarians' Store, online invoicing, approval slips, and partnerships with sellers that enable libraries to more easily sell their used books. Library Processing represents another step forward in providing libraries with an easy way to meet their collection and acquisition needs. For the latest list of new features and services for libraries, visit www.amazon.com/libraries.