Book-loving New Zealanders now have a new way to exchange titles, with the launch of online library mybookyourbook.com. "Most public libraries have online catalogues through which items can be ordered, but they have not moved to the next step of posting items to people in their homes," says former librarian Christine Bettesworth who set up the site. "Women with young children, people who live in rural areas and people without easy access to transport are some of those who will benefit from the scheme."Book-loving New Zealanders now have a new way to exchange titles, with the launch of online library mybookyourbook.com. "Most public libraries have online catalogues through which items can be ordered, but they have not moved to the next step of posting items to people in their homes," says former librarian Christine Bettesworth who set up the site. "Women with young children, people who live in rural areas and people without easy access to transport are some of those who will benefit from the scheme."Those who have shelves full of books that they have read and want to share with others will be able to recycle them, making better use of resources. A discussion forum allows members to exchange views on books and other topics.

Each member contributes 10 paperback books by adding them to the mybookyourbook online catalogue. They keep these books on their own shelves but must post any requested items to a member who sends a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

After a four-week period for reading, the book passes into the care of that borrower who in turn must send it to any other member who asks for it.

This system has been popular in the UK where the parent scheme was launched in August 2005 and received wide publicity.

Free membership is offered in 2007 to help get the scheme started.

25/6/07