Public libraries offer digital downloads

When was the last time you set foot inside a public library? If you're not a student, then it's probably been a while, hasn't it? Well in order to stay relevant in the Digital Age, some public libraries are expanding their digital collections which now include digital books, music, and movies.

A Reuters report says public libraries in Phoenix have already banded together to create a massive digital library that has about 50,000 downloadable e-books, audio books, music, and videos that can be checked out remotely by anyone with a library card and access to the Web.

But don't sweat it if you don't live in the greater Phoenix area. OverDrive Media, who is the main distributor helping libraries make this possible, has partnered with over 7,500 libraries to bring digital check-outs to a library near you.

Most of these digital libraries hold thousands of titles, and members can check out several items at a time by logging into the site. Keep in mind, you'll also need to download a program like Adobe Digital Editions, Mobipocket Reader or the OverDrive Media Console to access your downloaded books, which will be in your account for one to three weeks before they disappear.

The good news is media can be transferred from your computer to any number of mobile devices including Sony's eReader, Samsung's Blackjack, Palm's Treo 700wx, Creative's ZEN, Apple's iPhone, and of course, any iPod so you can enjoy them on the road.

OverDrive currently has deals with Harper Collins and Random House as well as music labels like Alligator, so some of the selections offered here are very current, and best of all, free to check out.

This should be a great resource and a money saver for students heading back to school this season, so make sure you search the Digital Media Locator to find out if your public library has a digital collection available.

Libraries step into the age of iPod (Reuters)