Adobe Content Server 3.0 Enables Libraries to Expand eBook Availability; New Lending Features Give Distributors Control Over Number of People Accessing Content.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 11, 2002

Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE), the leader in network publishing, today announced Adobe(R) Content Server 3.0, an end-to-end software solution that enables the secure distribution of Adobe Portable Document Format-based (PDF) eBooks. New Content Server 3.0 functionality makes it possible for libraries to loan and distribute Adobe PDF-based eBooks to patrons. Content providers and businesses may also use Content Server 3.0 to offer digital subscriptions of Adobe PDF content to consumers or employees.

Thousands of Adobe PDF eBooks from leading publishers such as HarperCollins, McGraw-Hill, Rough Guides, Holtzbrinck Publishers, including St. Martin's Press, Farrar Strauss and Giroux are already available today. Now, libraries will be able to instantly deliver these existing Adobe PDF eBooks and other digital materials to patrons. The eBooks are automatically checked in and out, and may be integrated with a library's existing catalog system, simplifying management and eliminating extra work while providing a high-quality user experience.

Through the library's web interface, patrons use a simple process to check out and receive eBooks, but do not need to be connected to the Internet to read them. Libraries also can set usage rules so eBooks expire after a certain amount of time or on a specified date. When the lending license expires, the eBook is automatically disabled on the patron's computer and returned to the library catalog.

"We have seen consistent growth in eBook adoption by publishers, consumers and schools as people recognize the convenience of having access to portable digital content," said James Alexander, director of eBooks at Adobe. "Today, Content Server drives the delivery of Adobe PDF eBooks on more than 300 retail Web sites, including Amazon.com, BN.com and Powells.com. Now libraries can leverage this technology to increase circulation, patron usage and satisfaction by adding electronic resources to their offerings."

Through a browser-based interface, Adobe Content Server 3.0 links key functions of the eBook supply chain for easy packaging, encryption and distribution of eBooks over the Internet. The software works seamlessly with existing IT environments, enabling content owners and distributors to secure intellectual property and tightly control digital rights and distribution. It also provides protection for copyright holders by allowing them to set rights and permissions, including whether content can be copied, printed or lent to other readers.

Pricing and Availability

To make it easy for libraries to add these new capabilities, Adobe has teamed with leading library solutions providers, ebrary, Baker & Taylor, Follett and netLibrary. These companies offer a turn-key solution that includes technology, high quality content and complete integration services. Through these eBook solution providers, Content Server 3.0 can be easily integrated with a library's existing IT infrastructure.

For libraries, retailers and corporations wishing to build their own solutions, the Adobe Content Server is available through Adobe distributors such as OverDrive, and can also be licensed directly from ebooks.adobe.com. The pricing model is:

-- Content-based pricing is a one-time fee of US$5,000 for one Content Server
destination site capable of hosting 250 titles. Expansion packages are US$1,000
per additional 500 titles.

-- ASP-based pricing is US$10,000 for the Content Server linked to one
destination site, hosting an unlimited number of titles. Additional destination
sites for Content Server are US$1,500 each.

-- Upgrades to Content Server 3.0 from previous versions also are available.

About Adobe Systems Incorporated

Founded in 1982, Adobe Systems Incorporated (www.adobe.com), the leader in network publishing, offers a comprehensive line of software for enterprise and creative professional customers. Its products enable customers to create, manage and deliver visually rich, compelling and reliable content. Based in San Jose, Calif., Adobe is one of the world's largest software companies with annual revenues exceeding $1.2 billion.

Adobe and the Adobe logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All prices listed are the U.S. estimated street price. Prices by distributor may vary.