Beginning on April 12, 2012, Queens Library will be lending 50 e-readers pre-loaded with e-books at the Central Library in Jamaica. It is a pilot program. It is the first time the service has been made available in one of NYC's public libraries. The e-readers have books on one of five themes: best sellers, romances, mysteries, teens' or children's books. There are also 50 works of classic literature loaded onto each reader. Library users may present a Queens Library card and photo ID to check out the devices free for 7 days, with the option to renew twice.

E-readers are compact, lightweight and hold many volumes simultaneously. They are particularly convenient when traveling and for people who find having many books "in their pockets" to be helpful. Because the size of the text and the lighting are adjustable, they are easy to view for a wide range of readers.

As the pilot is evaluated and funding becomes available, e-readers will be introduced to other library locations.