Windsor and Maidenhead Libraries Adds eBook and Audiobook Downloads

CLEVELAND, OH--(Marketwire - September 29, 2009) - The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Libraries (http://rbwm.lib.overdrive.com) has joined a growing number of UK public library authorities offering eBook and digital audiobook downloads.

The download service, powered by OverDrive (www.overdrive.com), allows users to browse the library's 'Virtual Branch' download website and custom digital book catalogue, check out titles with a library card, and download titles to a PC, Mac®, or Windows Mobile® phone. Most digital titles, including best sellers from popular authors like James Patterson, can be transferred to supported mobile devices, such as the Sony® Reader™ and iPod®.

"Adding eBook and audiobook downloads enhances the library experience while providing the convenience of anytime, anywhere access to a host of downloadable content," said Cllr Simon Dudley, the council's cabinet member for adult and community services. "Many library customers are spending more time on the Internet, and we can now better serve those customers with a collection of digital offerings that are available online."

Windsor and Maidenhead is one of the first library authorities to offer digital library lending services in the UK, joining Essex County Council Libraries (http://essex.bookaisle.com) and Luton Libraries (http://lutonlibraries.lib.overdrive.com). Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Croydon, Bexley, and Greenwich are also expected to add eBook and audiobook downloads in the near future.

All eBook and audiobook downloads from the library's custom digital catalogue and download website are borrowed just like a print book. Title records can be integrated into a library's existing online catalogue, making it easier for patrons to discover digital downloads. A patron then uses the same library card they have always used to check out an audiobook or eBook from the library's OverDrive-powered download service. The digital titles expire on the computer and are automatically returned to the library, so there are no late fees or lost materials.

OverDrive provides download services for more than 9,000 libraries, retailers, and schools worldwide with support for PC, Mac, and Sony Reader, as well as the largest collection of iPod-compatible audiobooks for libraries. To see if your library offers digital downloads and to find free eBooks and audiobooks, visit http://search.overdrive.com.

About OverDrive

OverDrive is a leading full-service digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, music, and video. We deliver secure management, DRM protection, and download fulfillment services for hundreds of publishers and thousands of libraries, schools, and retailers serving millions of end users. OverDrive provides the largest collection of iPod®-compatible audiobooks to libraries worldwide. Founded in 1986, OverDrive is based in Cleveland, OH. www.overdrive.com

About the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead Libraries

The public library service serves a population of 144,000 through 13 static and mobile libraries and now through the virtual branch. Visits, both in person and through the web, are around 790,000 and the libraries issue around 861,000 items each year. Full details of the library service, including other e-resources available to our customers, are at www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries.htm

Contact Information: Contact: David Burleigh OverDrive, Inc. 216-573-6886 x218