With the demand for digital content surging in libraries and schools, OverDrive this week announced the formation of a newly configured Content Group.
In a release, company reps said that OverDrive Content Group will integrate the company's film and video streaming service Kanopy alongside other digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, digital comic books, magazines, and other educational resources. The new unit will also explore expanded “geographic and channel specific offerings,” new "subscription plans and access models,” and enhanced “metadata and collection development services” for institutional buyers.
Jason Tyrrell, who for the past three years has served as general manager of Kanopy, which OverDrive acquired in 2021, has been tapped to lead the group as executive VP of content. Alexis Petric-Black, who has been with OverDrive for more than two decades, has been promoted to VP of content. And Erica Lazzaro, who has led OverDrive’s publisher services and legal teams, has been promoted to executive VP and general counsel.
“We envision a future where there will always be an abundance of compelling media available through your local library,” Tyrrell said in a statement. “By developing content discovery channels and evolving access models to support the sustainability of the supply chain, OverDrive will continue to provide the best possible content experience for institutions across the globe.”
OverDrive CEO Steve Potash said that the move comes as Kanopy viewership is surging, alongside use of the company’s school-focused Sora app. As of last month, he added, library checkouts via the company’s popular Libby app were up 35% over the same period last year.
“The OverDrive Content Group will assist our content suppliers in effectively reaching larger audiences for their books, stories, and media," Potash said, "while enhancing the selection, insights, and options for best managing digital school and library catalogs."
