I'm really surprised that the Richmond Public Library doesn't provide access to MP3 books. Sounds like they need a bit of a nudge.

Here in Montgomery County, MD, the library is buying fewer and fewer CD books and getting more and more e-books through NetLibrary and others. Saves the local library the expense of maintaining the tapes and CDs -- and they are high-maintenance items. The only wrinkle is that NetLibrary books are not compatible with IPod -- you have to have some other kind of MP3 player. I actually bought one for this purpose, but I haven't used it yet. Montgomery County has also recently started buying "Playaway" books -- these are little MP3 players pre-loaded with one book, and you can borrow them just like a print book. I have tried these, and they're fine. You have to supply your own earbuds or 'phones, which is no problem (unless you forget and return the buds to the library with the Playaway, as I did the first time...). Anyhow, seems to me if the Richmond Library got a few requests for e-books, they'd probably come around. Worth a try, anyhow.

I'm so addicted to audio books I'll try 'em in any format! The MP3 option is good because they're so portable -- just make sure you have a pocket!

Nancy