Now that I’m on-board with this whole e-reader thing, I’m discovering all sorts of neat stuff. Here’s one particularly fascinating tidbit: Did you know that you can check-out digital library books on your smartphone or e-reader? And that’s for free, just like a hard copy library book. And the best part of checking out an e-book? At the end of the lending period, titles will automatically expire and are returned to the digital collection. There are never late fees or damages to pay for.
Weekend after next, Denver Public Library (Greeley) is hosting the Digital Bookmobile, a fun service that puts on free events to educate readers of all ages on the digital checkout process. The event also features a gadget gallery showcasing iPhone®, Android™ tablet, BlackBerry®, NOOK™, Sony® Reader™ and Kindle® to help visitors discover portable devices that are compatible with the library’s download service.
So what exactly is the Digital Bookmobile? It’s literally an 18-foot tractor trailer. This 74-foot community outreach vehicle is a high-tech update of the traditional bookmobile that has served communities for decades. The vehicle is equipped with broadband Internet-connected PCs, high-definition monitors, premium sound systems, and a variety of portable media players, all of which help visitors explore their libraries’ download service. Interactive learning stations give visitors an opportunity to search the library’s digital media collection, use supported mobile devices, and sample eBooks, audiobooks, music, and video.
Library card holders can check out and download digital titles anytime, anywhere by visiting their library’s “Virtual Branch” website. To find a library near you, visit http://search.overdrive.com/. For more information about the Digital Bookmobile, visit www.digitalbookmobile.com.
Here is the full schedule:
Friday, May 18 (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Host: High Plains Library District
Wal-Mart
920 47th Ave.
Greeley
Saturday, May 19
Host: Poudre River Public Library District
(More event details coming soon…)
Sarah Ann Noel is a freelance writer, blogger, and public relations professional. She blogs “Read Alert” every week and covers other Denver-related events and thoughts on writing and motherhood on her personal blog. Check back every week for reviews, literary events, and other bookish finds.