Thing #22: Netlibrary

I have browsed Netlibrary before, especially to look at all the Pimsleur language cds that are available there; that is quite an impressive selection! And I do know of some particular patrons who use the downloadable audiobooks. The fiction selection seems pretty good. I found several things that interested me right away without much searching. I was pretty disappointed with the children's and the young adult selection, though. That's really a shame because it seems like young adults especially would be more likely to take advantage of the downloadable books since so many of them have mp3 players and are not intimidated by computers. This is the exact opposite of so many of our adult patrons and the main problem I foresee in getting them to take advantage of Netlibrary downloads. I was also surprised that none of the downloads are compatible with zunes or ipods. I think that really limits the number of people who will use this resource. Maybe that will change eventually?

After playing around I feel a bit more comfortable and better informed about the whole process. I am glad to know that the audiobooks can be renewed! That was my first question. I logged in and downloaded Breath, Eyes, Memory by Edwidge Danticat just out of curiosity; I was able to play it on my media player without any problems. I can't wait to try it out on my mp3 player.