County Library Online Has Easy E-Book, Audiobook Downloads

Library patrons don't have to choose between book or Nook.

Finding a good summer page-turner just got easier now that avid readers can check out an e-book or audiobook from the library without leaving home, the beach or the pool.

The Delaware County Library System (DCLS) offers a that allows library cardholders to borrow and read books on their computer, or transfer them to select e-book readers such as the Barnes and Noble nook. Audiobooks can be downloaded and played on an iPod, iPhone or MP3 players. 

Readers can enjoy all that the library has to offer from the comforts of home, while on vacation or traveling on business.

All you need to download an e-book/audiobook from the DCLS website is:

• A valid library card
• Internet access
• Computer or device that meets system requirements for materials
• Free software available on the website for the computer or device

The advantages to downloading e-books and audiobooks from DCLS are endless. All downloads can be done from your home computer, no trips to the library are necessary. E-books and audiobooks are available for download 24/7. Whatever you borrow is automatically returned, meaning no more late fees.  It is compatible with many of today’s popular handheld devices, such as the iPad, iPhone, Android, Blackberry, or Windows 7 device. And best of all, it’s free!

The popularity of downloading books through the DCLS website is constantly rising. In November of 2010, Delaware County residents downloaded 504 e-books from the DCLS website.

That number jumped at Christmas time when many county residents received e-book readers as holiday gifts and the numbers continue to grow. In June, DCLS reported that 2,227 e-books were downloaded, which is over four times the use in November 2010.

“Our County library system offers so many advantages and programs to our residents, and downloadable books is just one of the great benefits of being a library member,” said County Council Chairman Jack Whelan. “This is the future of books, where an entire library is as portable as a cellphone. It’s remarkable, and this feature makes it more convenient for people to pick up a book.”

David Belanger, DCLS director, said library patrons can download e-books from the DCLS website (www.delcolibraries.org) by clicking on the “Download Audiobooks & E-books” tab at the top of the home page. Many of today’s best sellers are available for online download.  If the book you want is not available for download, you may click on the LibraryBIN (Buy It Now) icon. When you purchase a title a portion of the sale will go to the DCLS to buy more e-books.

Residents can also get library news and information by following delcolibraries on Facebook or Twitter.

The Delaware County Library system is a department of County government providing support services to 25 member libraries. For more information call 610-891-8622.