Digital Audio Books Debut at James Prendergast Library

JAMESTOWN, NY -- (MARKET WIRE) -- April 3, 2007 -- The Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System has taken the first step toward giving cardholders of its automated libraries access to digital audio books at http://ccls.lib.overdrive.com.

The service began April 2 for Jamestown's Prendergast Library, whose cardholders can log onto the digital library website, install free software, select titles, check out audio books and download them to a personal computer. The digital audio books can also be transferred to portable electronic devices such as an MP3 player, and some can be burned to a CD.

Later this spring, cardholders of the bookmobile and public libraries in Ashville, Chautauqua, Westfield, Ellicottville, Machias, Olean, Silver Creek, and Westfield are also expected to have access to the service. All of these outlets participate in the System's online catalog.

"Books on tape and books on CD have been popular at Prendergast Library for a long time. Now borrowers who enjoy listening to a book can do so in this new format," said Director Catherine A. Way.

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

Prendergast Library's 178 new digital audio books for adults include fiction and non-fiction. Patrons can check out up to three titles for 14 days. After the lending period, the audio books expire from a borrower's computer and are automatically returned to the digital collection.

"The service is free and easy-to-use," Ms. Way said. "There are no late fees or damage costs."

Users must have a valid library card and download the digital audio books to their personal computers -- not a public access computer at the library.

Sample titles for adults include "A Briefer History of Time," "The Da Vinci Code," "The Devil Wears Prada," and "French Women Don't Get Fat." Authors include Janet Evanovich, John Grisham, Loretta LaRoche, Janette Oke, and Sue Grafton. Titles are also available for children.

Cardholders can access the digital books from their homes or offices without having to come into the library.

"Since some borrowers of books on tape or CD have limited mobility, this will be a great convenience to them," Ms. Way said. "And everyone can appreciate the advantages of having these titles available anytime from anywhere in the world."

For information about the new digital audio book service, call the Prendergast Library reference desk at 484-7135, Ext. 225.

About OverDrive, Inc.

OverDrive is a leader in providing world-class infrastructure for downloading premium digital content. We deliver secure management, protection and download services for hundreds of publishers and institutions (rights holders) and thousands of libraries, retailers and distributors serving millions of end users. With a global catalog of premium digital titles -- including current best sellers -- of eBooks, audio books, music, video and (coming soon) games & interactive software presentable in a single platform, OverDrive offers the industry's best selection as well as the option to manage, protect and download proprietary content. Founded in 1986, OverDrive is based in Cleveland, OH. www.overdrive.com

Contact Information: For information contact: Megan Disbro 484-7135, Ext. 251