Parking Lot Reflections

Our office was introduced to the Mp3 player version of audiobooks known as Playaways by one of our vendors awhile back. Not being an “audio” book participant (just not my thing…can’t keep up with the story), nevertheless, I do find these “cute” little packages intriguing. At least 3-4 of our campuses have bought a few to explore their check-out popularity with students.

I know that they will attract attention at our upcoming state library conference next month. Our district librarians will be among the crowds checking out the titles and types of books available in this format and probably adding some to their consideration files for next year’s budget funds (because who has any money left at this time of year!)

At a blog I’m just beginning to explore, I found this good overview of what to think about when adding Playaways to your collection. The statements are generic enough that the thoughts are applicable to any audiobook in this form. Good information on storage and parental notification. Here is another shorter reference to them at the same site. Here is a website about them that has a good concise “how-to” that could easily be converted to a small poster to hang near the collection or handout to include with the items.

In researching this topic, I also came across this weeks-old article that talks about audiobooks in general and all ages of students. Playaways are mentioned as a good way for elementary kids to build interest in books which then leads to more reading! The rest of the article covers the many ways college students use their Mp3 players and how universities are adapting to this use by their students.

Might just have to give one a try myself!