Greetings from Plumb Library. Welcome to BookRemarks, a monthly feature focusing on all things library related.
Remember audiobooks? Those novels that came on old-school cassette tapes that morphed into CDs and MP3 discs, and then turned into self-contained digital players. They have continued to evolve into online and app-based services and are still a very popular way for library users to read. With your library card you have access to free audiobooks and e-books through the Libby/Overdrive or Hoopla platforms. If you’re familiar with Audible from Amazon, it works in much the same way but comes to you at no charge. That’s right, it’s totally free to library users. Thousands of titles for readers of all ages are available on Libby and Hoopla. Simply download the app to your preferred device (phone or tablet) and log in with your library card (Hoopla will only work with a Rochester card.) Libby/Overdrive is also available on your laptop or desktop computer and can be accessed via the library’s website. Search out your favorite authors or try something completely new. There are curated lists that change monthly so there is always something fresh for you to check out. Some titles will have a wait-list, but there is a section of “always available” items to borrow. Downloaded books can be set for an up-to 3-week checkout and can be returned early to free up space on your digital bookshelf. Once a book is downloaded, it’s accessible from your device anytime, even without an internet connection, and can be played in the car via a Bluetooth connection. If you’re looking for more ways to use Libby or Hoopla, there are also magazines, comics, music, movies and TV shows. Let us know if you’d like to come by and see a demo.
As always, your Library Staff, Kristen, Jen, Lisa and Bridget are here to help you find what you need. Feel free to call 508-763-8600 or email us at info@plumblibrary.com with any questions. Better yet, come by and say hello.