Franklin Electronic Publishers has appointed Elizabeth Mackey v-p of content. In her newly created position Mackey will oversee the acquisition of electronic rights to books and periodicals for Franklin's line of e-books, including the eBookMan. Mackey will also be charged with helping Franklin partner with other content aggregators and distributors, and with developing sales promotions. Mackey had been v-p of content for Softbook Press and previously had been editorial director of Simon & Schuster Interactive.

Mackey's appointment capped an active April for Franklin during which the company was awarded a patent on the microprocessor used in its e-books. With the patent, Franklin has begun a licensing program for the eBookMan technology package. Earlier in the month, Franklin was notified by the New York Stock Exchange that it was considering delisting the company because of its failure to meet listing requirements. Franklin has appealed the decision and a review is planned for June 6.