BOULDER, COLO. - May 18, 2001 - netLibrary(tm), the leading provider of eBooks and Internet-based content/collection management services, was recognized last night as a promising new company at the inaugural APEX Award Ceremony that took place at the Paramount Theater in Denver. The awards were sponsored by the Colorado Software and Internet Association to recognize Colorado companies, products, services, and individuals who have performed exceptionally in their respective classes. netLibrary was recognized in the 'Most Promising New Company' category based on its innovative business approach, its successful and well-balanced management team, as well as its demonstrated ability to persevere and to sustain growth. The award also acknowledged netLibrary's potential for continued success and its capacity to deliver new and measurable value to its customers. "netLibrary is honored to be recognized by the Colorado Software and Internet Association," said Rob Kaufman, CEO and president, netLibrary, Inc. "This award reflects the passion and dedication of everyone at netLibrary for our work in supporting libraries around the world with technology and services that help advance and expand their role in a digital age. My congratulations to all netLIbrary employees for a job well done!" eBooks are full-text electronic versions of published books that library patrons can search, borrow, read, and return via the Internet. With netLibrary eBooks, users can access library resources anywhere, anytime, and perform full-text searches across hundreds of books or within a specific book to speed research and reference projects. These books can be viewed online from the library, office, home, or remote location using an Internet browser, or can be downloaded to a laptop. Added benefits include an embedded dictionary in each book with accompanying visuals and verbal pronunciation, as well as hyperlinks from both the table of contents and index. eBooks are available for varying checkout periods and are automatically checked back into the library collection when the checkout period expires.