An audiobook for every vacation —July 6, 2012
Are you planning a vacation? Do your plans include finally getting to that book you missed earlier? Now is the perfect time to check out an audiobook. Your library has a great selection of titles in a format suited to you and your vacation plans. In fact, audiobooks are available in many formats and for all ages.
For example, let’s say your plans include a hike up a spectacular mountain trail. The perfect format for you is a Playaway. Playaway is the brand name for a self-playing digital device that comes already loaded with the audiobook inside. All you do is press the start button. Here’s the good part: this lightweight player with eight simple buttons can be worn around your neck or placed in a pocket. Your own personal earbuds are included. Be sure to take along extra batteries to get you to the summit! In the Playaway “Just after Sunset” you’ll be treated to 13 short stories by horror maestro Stephen King, some narrated by the author.
Okay, hiking does sound a little like work and, after all, this is your vacation. Take the scenic driving route to your vacation destination. The miles will absolutely fly by as you listen to books by your favorite author. You may choose from several formats.
One option is books on CD or cassette like “Supervolcano,” a science fiction thriller on 13 discs by Harry Turtledove, in which a volcanic eruption in Yellowstone National Park leaves few survivors to rise from the ashes.
Driving solo? For practically effortless reading enroute try an MP3-CD which is the entire book on just 1 or 2 discs; no fumbling with multiple disc changes is a plus. For this format you will need an MP3-CD compatible player, generally found in newer cars. Try “House rules” by Jodi Picoult, one of America’s most popular authors.
Did someone say FREE downloadable audibooks? If you have an MP3 device Nebraska Overdrive is your source. For more information on compatible devices and free software go to the library’s website, www.hastings.lib.ne.us, and click on “Download eBooks and audio books with Nebraska Overdrive.”
So before your summer getaway or any day, for that matter, embark on an audiobook shopping trip. At the library you’ll find just what you need for every member of the family from children to teens to adults. Now you can browse adult fiction and nonfiction audio in one location on second floor. Childrens and teen audio are on first floor.
