Hamilton East Public Library offers patrons access to a world of digital media

I looked over the website of my local public library to determine some of the strengths of its resources.  I am quite fond of this place where I have spent many hours reading, studying and computing.  The Hamilton East Public Library, also known as HEPL, has much to offer its local patrons and you can visit their website at http://www.hepl.lib.in.us/.  

Earlier in the semester, when we were tasked with talking with a librarian, I remember chatting about the gaining popularity of audiobooks and e-books.  She commented that this was a relatively recent phenomenon and said that some of the reference librarians had to go out to get Nooks or Kindles just because the patrons had started asking so many questions about how to get the content onto their devices. 

Perhaps in response to her comment, one of the newer features is connecting patrons to Overdrive, an online site dedicated to offering patrons downloadable Audiobooks, eBooks, Music and Video.  

As with borrowing most library material, there is a specific period of time that the titles are loaned out after which the files automatically expire and will be checked back in.  There is little fuss or worry and there are no late fees this way.  If the file is still visible on your computer, you would just be prompted to delete it since it would not be accessible after the expiration.   

Although the terms Audiobook and electronic book (or e-book) might be confusing or sound like they mean the same thing, they definitely are not the same. Audiobooks are a recorded reading of the book -- it is similar to music that you would listen to on CD, tape or on your iPod.    On the other hand, an e-book is an electronic file that you would use to display the material on an e-reader (such as Nook or Kindle) or even your own computer. 

There are detailed instructions on the library website and offers several “help” resources such as the FAQs located on the Overdrive site, guided tours, and direct e-mail support from the staff.  The website states that library staff requests that you send questions or suggestions on new titles through e-mail or by calling either of the library branch locations – Fishers or Noblesville.

The Hamilton East Library makes it clear that Overdrive offers two formats of Audiobooks – MP3 and WMA (Windows Media Audio).   Depending on publisher permission, an audiobook may actually be able to be burned to a CD. 

For the e-books, these are items that is formatted for viewing on screen or on a number of portable devices.  First you search for titles online and then download them so they can be read offline.  Overdrive also offers PDF and EPUB eBooks as well which may be very convenient for those who have not yet purchased e-readers.

Since this service is available after hours, this is a convenient way for patrons to have wider access to the materials available.  Access to the resources isn’t quite as simple as checking out a book in person.  Rather, you will need a few things set up prior to being able to use the service –     

• a library card from one of the participating libraries
• an internet connection
• and some free software –
• Adobe Digital Editions for eBooks, and/or
• Overdrive Media Console for audiobooks, videos and music to download EPUB books to iPhone and other mobile devices.

I personally do not own a Nook or Kindle at the moment, but enjoy listening to audiobooks on CD my commute to work.  I have been able to consume everything from Black Beauty to 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea to several Harry Potter volumes.  I am eager to start using this service and downloading material in print or audio form.

In case you aren’t a member of my own library, several other libraries in Indiana are Overdrive site members, including:

• Anderson Public Library – “…informs, connects, engages and empowers”
• Frankfort Community Public Library – “…to meet their needs in education, information and recreation.”
• Hamilton East Public Library - “…promote and foster the free flow of information and ideas.”
• Kokomo - Howard County Public Library – “aid and encourage the pursuit of education, information, research and recreation in an inviting environment.”
• La Porte County Public Library – “make available … the highest possible level of information.”
• Monroe County Public Library – “enriches individual lives and strengthens  our community by offering equitable access to information and opportunities for literacy, learning and enjoyment.”
• Muncie Public Library – “…creating environments which foster lifelong learning, personal enrichment and a literate society; strengthening information partnerships through resource sharing …”
• Speedway Public Library – “Serving a full range of materials and services geared to all age groups, educational levels, and interests.”
• Tippecanoe County Public Library – “explore and enjoy excellent resources that enrich your life and our community's life, today and tomorrow.”
• Vigo County Public Library – “…help meet the educational, cultural, informational, and recreational needs of the community …”
• Westfield Public Library – “provide quality services, materials and facilities that fulfill the educational, informational, technological, cultural and recreational needs of the entire community.”

~Sarah Sahara