Customers can search for books on their local library's website and choose a book to borrow. Once selected, customers can choose to send it to their Kindle device after they have signed into their Amazon account. Readers can make notes in the margins on their Kindle which are saved and reproduced when a reader checks the same book out again or chooses to buy it.

Earlier this week, Amazon launched a test in two libraries in its hometown of Seattle. Marcellus Turner, city librarian for the Seattle Public Library, said: "This is a welcome day for Kindle users in libraries everywhere and especially our Kindle users here at The Seattle Public Library. We're thrilled that Amazon is offering such a new approach to library e-books that enhances the reader experience."

Jay Marine, director for Amazon Kindle, said: "Starting today, millions of Kindle customers can borrow Kindle books from their local libraries. Libraries are a critical part of our communities and we're excited to be making Kindle books available at more than 11,000 local libraries around the country."

The Bookseller