Online Databases - Alphabetical



		Downloadable audiobooks are audio recordings of published books in Windows Media Audio file format. They can be listened to on a computer, or transferred to an MP3 player. (Not Apple iPods or Microsoft Zunes) These audiobooks require Windows Media Player 9 or higher to be installed on your computer. The Library purchases downloadable audiobooks from two different vendors, OverDrive (Metro Net Online Lending Library) and NetLibrary (Recorded Books). The following chart compares the offerings from the two services.

	OVERDRIVE AUDIO	NetLIBRARY RECORDED BOOKS
Where are the downloadable audiobooks?	Metro Net Online Lending Library or BTPL Catalog	NetLibrary/Recorded Books or BTPL Catalog
Who’s eligible to borrow?	BTPL patrons with a valid library card. No other account needed.	Anyone with a free NetLibrary account created at a library computer or from home with a BTPL library card.
What equipment is needed?	Windows OS home computer and high-speed internet connection. Some audiobooks can be transferred to audio CDs, certain portable devices and music players. Read more about supported devices. Overdrive does NOT support iPod or Palm products.	Windows OS home computer and high-speed internet connection. Can be transferred to certain portable devices and music players. Read more about supported devices. NetLibrary does NOT support iPod or Palm products.
Free software required	Overdrive Media Console Windows Media Player	Windows Media Player, version 9 or higher
Required Internet connection?	Brief connection to cable or DSL. Library computers may not be used for this.	Brief connection to cable or DSL for CD quality, or dialup for radio quality (which does not download to portable players). Library computers may not be used for this.
What’s available?	Over 700 unabridged classic and current nonfiction and fiction for adults, young adults and children	Over 1700 unabridged classic and current fiction and nonfiction. Includes Children's collection and Pimsleur Language Program.
Loan period?	10 days with no renewal—limit 10 books at a time	21 days with unlimited recheckout. Limit 10 books at a time
Holds accepted?	Yes—you are notified by email when the audio book is available to you	None needed, no limits to number of users
More details?	Quickstart Guide Overdrive Demo Help	NetLibrary Demo See Help Topics
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