The OverDrive Digital Bookmobile is coming to Rochester Hills Public Library (RHPL) on Wednesday, July 29 from 2 – 8 p.m. Developed inside a 74-foot, 18-wheel tractor-trailer, the nationally touring Digital Bookmobile is a high-tech update of the traditional bookmobile that has served communities for decades. “The Digital Bookmobile first visited our library in 2012. It was a very successful first visit. We were one of the busiest stops in Michigan. When we heard it was touring the Midwest again this summer, we jumped at the chance to host a return visit of the Digital Bookmobile,” said library director, Christine Lind Hage.
The vehicle is equipped with broadband Internet-connected PCs, high-definition monitors, premium sound systems, and a variety of portable media players. Interactive computer stations give visitors an opportunity to search the digital media collection, use supported mobile devices, and sample eBooks and eAudiobooks from the library.
The comprehensive exhibits on board will highlight all aspects of RHPL’s digital download experience: The Digital Catalog, Audiobook Alley, eBook Experience, Video Lounge, and Gadget Gallery. Customers looking to purchase an e-reader or digital device can test drive many products available on the market at the Digital Bookmobile and see exactly which products work best with the OverDrive service.
More and more people are purchasing e-readers and there is high demand for eBooks and downloadable audiobooks. RHPL circulation of library eBooks has increased 55% over the past year alone.
“We are excited for our library customers to see everything that OverDrive has to offer through this interactive experience,” said Adult Librarian, Holly Clarke. “OverDrive has been a fantastic resource for our customers and we are hoping to expose even more library customers to our eBooks services during the Digital Bookmobile visit.”
For library customers not able to visit the OverDrive Digital Bookmobile on July 29, RHPL offers one-on-one help with digital books, magazines, and music at the second floor eBranch desk by appointment. Call the reference desk in the Adult Department at 248-650-7130 to schedule an eBranch appointment. Visit the library’s virtual eBranch at any time to access digital materials, digital download instructions, and FAQ’s.
The Rochester Hills Public Library is located in downtown Rochester off of University Drive and 3 blocks east of Main Street. The library is open from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturday. The library’s website has information on how to register for a card and access all of the library’s services.
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