Overdrive’s Digital Bookmobile @ Somerset County Library
The Task Force recommended a similar vehicle – a mobile technology trailer – as part of their findings presented at NJLA 2008. Our proposal envisioned a trailer that highlighted: digital features available from libraries across the state offer (including digital downloads: music, movies, book, audiobooks), gaming equipment, computers (also offering computer instruction), etc.
Overdrive’s trailer was certainly impressive but it spoke to only one vendor, offering one type of service. It was clearly geared toward adults (let’s not forget the kids!!) and there was really no place for detailed instruction. So, it provided a good model for something the state could use (a mix of the traditional bookmobile with a high tech interior)… Regarding Overdrive, the ease of installation and usuablity is questionable. Online Library services still have a long way to go.
- A picture of the enormous trailer that is the OverDrive Digital Bookmobile.
- This TV, and two others inside the trailer, run on a two minute loop, introducing people to OverDrive and its services.
- This gentleman led us on a tour through the trailer.
- Information panels were found throughout.
- Computer stations were set up throughout to allow users to browse (and listen to) the collection. There was a heavy emphasis on ease of use.
- A table with various hardware for storing digital downloads was a good idea but corporate sponsorship would have been even better. Why promote other products for free?
- Our guide explains how to use the video download feature.
- Information, quotes, and statistics lined the top walls of the trailer. Very nifty.
- The video download feature display.
39 Clues Audio Sampler
I’m currently listening to the 39 Clues Audio Sampler I picked up at ALA Annual. Now, I usually dislike audio books – just listen to the Twilight (by Stephenie Meyer) audio recording and you will hear what I mean) but there are a few I’ve heard that are exceptional: the Harry Potter series (both Stephen Fry’s reading and Jim Dale’s), The Golden Compass (read by the author, Phillip Pullman, and a full cast), and The Alchemist (read by Jeremy Irons).
David Pittu read 39 Cluesand I liked it right off the bad. I enjoyed his reading, with distinct voices for each character. He pulls it off in much the same way Jim Dale does. But I enjoy David’s narrative voice even more. This is one I will be adding to my collection and recommending to my mother (who has a Harry Potter CD in her car’s CD player and the house CD player AT ALL TIMES AND GOD FORBID YOU TOUCH IT!). I think she’ll like this one enough to swap out a Potter from one of those players.
