Madison Public Library will host the Digital Bookmobile, an immersive download experience inside a 74-foot, high-tech tractor-trailer, on July 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lakeview Branch, 2845 N. Sherman Ave. Readers of all ages are invited to engage in digital downloading through interactive demonstrations and to experience Madison Public Library’s audiobook and video download service at this free event. The event will also include free beverages, a special preschool storytime at 1:30 p.m., and a chance to win one of two Creative MuVo MP3 players.

“How people use public libraries has changed dramatically in recent years, and libraries are offering a host of new services to meet these new expectations,” said Barbara Dimick, director of the Madison Public Library. “Downloading audiobooks to an MP3 player is an incredible convenience, and visiting the OverDrive Digital Bookmobile is a great way to experience this Wisconsin-wide service.”

The Digital Bookmobile is housed inside an 18-wheel tractor-trailer. This 74-foot community outreach vehicle is a high-tech update of the traditional bookmobile that has served communities for decades. The vehicle is equipped with broadband Internet-connected PCs, high definition monitors, premium sound systems, and a variety of portable media players, all of which help visitors explore the library’s download service and sample audiobooks, music, and video.

Library users can take advantage of the download service 24/7 when they visit the library’s website at http://dbooks.wplc.info/. From there, they can browse the growing collection of best-selling, new release, and classic titles, and check out a digital title with a valid library card. Once downloaded, digital titles can be enjoyed on a computer or transferred to iPods, MP3 players and other mobile devices. Many audio titles can also be burned to audio CD.

Use of the OverDrive digital collection has increased every year since it was introduced. By the end of June, usage for 2009 will have surpassed all usage for 2008. Recent changes make the service more friendly for iPod users as well due to changes OverDrive’s proprietary download and transfer software. Madison Public Library’s OverDrive collection includes nearly 4,500 titles.

The Digital Bookmobile is a service of Madison Public Library and is operated by OverDrive, Inc. To check out and download digital books and more, visit http://dbooks.wplc.info/.