For Immediate Release: October 26, 2010

Oakland Public Library LAUNCHES the Oakland ePORT

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Expands Downloadable Audiobooks and eBooks selection

( Oakland) – With the recent launch of the Oakland ePort, the Oakland Public Library has expanded its services with audiobooks and ebooks available to download from the library’s website. Library card holders can check out and download digital media anytime, anywhere by visiting http://oakland.lib.overdrive.com/

Currently, approximately 1,000 new titles are available in audio book and ebook format, and 15,000 public domain titles are available in ebook format, and the list is growing steadily.

Users may browse the library’s website, log in with a valid library card and a PIN, and download to PC, Mac, and many mobile devices. Users will need to install free software: for audiobooks, music, and video, users will need OverDrive Media Console; to read eBooks, users will need Adobe Digital Editions. Titles can be enjoyed immediately on a desktop computer or transferred to a variety of devices, including iPod, Sony Reader, and many others. Some audio titles can also be burned to CD. Titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period. There are no late fees!

For full information on how to access the Oakland Public Library’s online e-Port, visit http://oakland.lib.overdrive.com/

What’s the advantage of downloadable audiobooks and ebooks from the Library?

• They’re available for download anytime, anywhere, 7 days a week, and you don’t have to go to the library to get them.
• You can use this new downloadable technology to borrow new titles from the Library rather than buying them.
• It’s an alternative to waiting to borrow the hardcover book from the library.

What’s available on the ePort?

• Audiobooks and ebooks for children, teens, and adults, in popular fiction and non-fiction titles.
• Classics that have stood the test of time.
• Current bestsellers in the mystery, thriller, and historical fiction genres.
• Nonfiction bestsellers in history, politics, science, and biography.
• eBooks in Chinese.
• Language Learning downloadable audiobooks.
• Books on health, fitness, and self-improvement in audiobook and ebook formats.
• Audiobooks and ebooks on business and careers for busy commuters.

A Quick Look at Downloadable Audiobook and eBook Features

• You can read Overdrive eBooks on your computer and on some portable e-reader devices, including the Barnes and Noble Nook and the Sony Reader (but not the Kindle or iPad at this point). 
• You can listen to OverDrive audiobooks on your computer, on mp3 players such as the iPod, and on many smart phones.
• OverDrive downloads are allowed from home/remote locations.
• You can choose an eBook checkout period of 7, 14 or 21 days and an audiobook checkout period of 7 or 14 days, and you can check out up to 3 titles at a time. You can place holds on titles that are checked out by other users.

For additional help or information with OverDrive eBooks or audiobooks, check the OverDrive help page, or contact library staff at any Oakland Public Library location or via e-mail using overdrivehelp@oaklandlibrary.org. Call the Library at 238-3271 or visit www.oaklandlibrary.org. The Oakland Public Library is a department of the City of Oakland.