Circulating Kindles

Vassar College Libraries now has eight circulating Kindle Paperwhites available for check out at the Main Circulation Desk. In addition to the many books we have in the Browsing Collection, we wanted to experiment with providing some of the same titles, as well as some new leisure-reading selections, on a e-reader technology. If you don't have your own e-reader device, we thought you might be interested in discovering what it's like to read a book using one. Please give us feedback at researchhelp@vassar.edu about your experience and about the selections!

How can I check out a Kindle?

Kindles can be checked out by Vassar students, faculty and staff from the Main Circulation Desk. The check out period is three weeks, and one renewal is permitted. Kindles may also be recalled.

What about recharging it?

A power cord and plug will be circulated with the Kindle. This equipment will be checked out together with the Kindle in a case. All parts MUST be returned together to the Main Circulation Desk.

What titles are available?

To see a complete list of titles available on our Kindles, search the library catalog:

1. Go to the basic catalog search page.
2. Select Genre/Form from the dropdown menu.
3. Search the phrase kindle ebooks.

How can I make sure my Kindle content is up-to-date?

Make sure you sync your charged Kindle while on campus.

Can I download these titles to my personal Kindle?

No, unfortunately due to licensing restrictions these titles can be read only on the library's circulating Kindles.

What happens if I lose or damage a Kindle?

The replacement cost for a damaged or lost Kindle is $200.

When is the Kindle I have checked out due back?

Check your account like you would for other library materials. 

Is there a late fee?

$1 a day for students; the same as the late fee for Browsing titles.

Does the library offer other e-readers?

This pilot project is limited to Kindle Paperwhites. In the future we may offer additional e-readers.

Can I request titles to be added to the Kindles?

If you have suggestions for titles, please send them to Deb Bucher at debucher@vassar.edu; she will be reviewing requests for Kindle titles.

My Kindle won't connect to the wi-fi; what do I do?

First, make sure you are on campus and within range of the Vassar wi-fi. Next, restart your Kindle by holding the power button (on the bottom of the device) for several seconds, until a box pops up with "Power" options. Select "Restart." Your device should reconnect to the network and you should be able to update the Kindle with the latest titles. 

 

Kindle Paperwhite tips

1. There is only one button on the Kindle Paperwhite located at the bottom of the Kindle. Press this button to turn the Kindle on.

2. Tap the top left of the Kindle screen to bring up a "house" icon. This opens up the Kindle and shows all the titles on the device. You can browse selections by titles or author from here.

See the Users' guide to the Kindle Paperwhite for more information.