County books it with new website

The County of Simcoe Library Cooperative has announced the launch of a new service - electronic audio books.

Library patrons with a valid card can log onto the new PULSE (Public Libraries Sharing E-Media) website to browse the collection.

They can also check out and download a wide variety of titles to their computers. The audio books can be accessed anytime, anywhere at no cost to patrons.

The collection includes both fiction and non-fiction titles as well as books for children and young adults. All genres are available including romance, mystery, suspense, fantasy, science fiction and western.

The audio books may be checked out for two weeks and at the end of the lending period, they expire from the patron's computer and are automatically "returned" to the Pulse digital collection. Library holds can be placed on titles that are checked out to other patrons.

"This is a terrific new service and we are excited to be able to offer this to county library patrons," said Jane Sinclair, the county's health and cultural services general manager. "This is a leading edge service with many great features. The digital books cannot be damaged and patrons will never incur any overdue fines.The service is free, easy to use, and accessible 24/7."

The official launch took place across the county Oct. 16, to coincide with Ontario Public Library Week. Individual libraries in our member municipalities celebrated the launch of this new service with specific events at several of their facilities.

Users must first download and install the service's overdrive media console and then they are free to select from the growing list of titles.

The digital audio books can be transferred to a compatible MP3 player and some can even be copied to CD.

The technology is provided by Overdrive, Inc., a leading provider of digital media.

The service is funded by the library cooperative with additional financial support from a number of member libraries.

Participating public libraries include Bradford West Gwillimbury, Essa, Innisfil and New Tecumseth.

For more, visit www.pulse.simcoe.ca.