In March the company purchased Australian eBook retailer Booki.sh which makes titles available via the customer’s web browser rather than requiring them to install apps.
OverDrive’s new service will be based on technology developed by Booki.sh and will offer a separate URL (internet address) for each book, allowing titles to be easily promoted.
“OverDrive Read’s use of open web standards will enable online communities to accelerate discovery and socialization of eBooks,” said Erica Lazzaro, OverDrive’s director of publisher relations.
“It will enable OverDrive’s catalog of premium eBooks from over 1,000 publishers to be easily integrated across retail, school and library catalogs for standard computers and connected mobile devices.”
The company already provides apps for mobile phones and tablets in addition to powering ebook stores and fulfilment services for retailers.