Libraries to Go

All right folks. My short story deadline looms large, but I wanted to blog about a great feature many libraries are offering.

My commute ranges from 40 minutes to an hour depending on the weather (believe it or not Portlanders have a hard time driving in the rain). I keep this segment of my life from being a total waste of time by listening to podcasts or audiobooks. That’s where Libraries to Go comes in.

With a library card issued from a supported library, you can add your name to a waiting list to listen to all kinds of audiobooks for free. Many of the classics are available immediately. No late fees, no fumbling with CD’s and no last minute trips to the library.

Now, for the catches. You didn’t seriously believe there wouldn’t be any did you? Not all libraries are supported, you will have to download the Overdrive software, and many of the audiobooks can not be burned to CD or downloaded to an ipod. But if you are a gadget head like me, you carry your laptop and or your handheld with you most places anyway.

On a related note, I am amazed at the numbers of people that don't take advantage of the offerings of their public library. I am aware that not all libraries are created equal and funding dictates how many services each library offers. But here in Metro Oregon, our library offers most of the NY Times bestsallers in audiobook and print form almost immediately. Be prepared to wait for the more popular titles.