The next wave in audiobook technology that libraries are offering are on a small player called a “playaway”. This format developed by leading audiobook publisher, Recorded Books Llc, has an entire book pre-loaded on an mp3 player rather than several CDs.

The tiny players fit in an adult’s palm and are heard through headphones or speakers attached to the player.  They are especially popular with commuters as they are very portable and there is no changing discs.

Readers like the quality and ease of use, as well as the ability to move back and forth between chapters and within chapters, The device also allows readers to alter the speed of the narrator’s voice and has an automatic bookmark feature that “remembers” where the listener left off.

The players are easier to store since there’s only one unit. Using foam to cradle the players in their storage cases, help to keep them free from damage.

There are over 180 titles in many genres from Stephen Hawkings “A Brief History of Time” to Zlata’s Diary by Zlata Filipovic.

Check out your neighborhood library to see this new way to experience reading.