Conference to highlight MP3 audiobook downloads, Digital Bookmobile tour, and more

 

Cleveland, OH – June 24, 2008–Hundreds of leading public librarians from 40 states and 3 countries will assemble in downtown Cleveland on July 24-27, 2008, for OverDrive’s international user conference Digipalooza ‘08 (www.Digipalooza.com). The biennial event is a unique blend of education and networking, designed to inform librarians about DRM-free MP3 downloads, the nationally touring Digital Bookmobile, and many other recent advances in digital media.

Among the dozens of panel discussions, Digipalooza ‘08’s featured presentation will be a keynote address by Sari Feldman, president-elect of the Public Library Association. Feldman, who also serves as executive director of Cuyahoga County Public Library, will speak on the changing role of libraries in the 21st century. Additionally, Boston Public Library’s Michael Colford, Sno-Isle Regional Libraries’ Jim McCluskey, Hamilton Public Library’s Michael Ciccone, Rochester Public Library’s Kim Edson, noted public library fiction selector Cindy Orr, and publishing and technology experts from BBC Audiobooks, HarperCollins, Books on Tape, and Brilliance Audio are scheduled to present.  In total, nearly 40 digital media experts will take part in Digipalooza ’08 sessions.

“Digipalooza 2006 was one of the best professional experiences I’ve ever had,” said Michael Ciccone, Collection Development Manager, Hamilton Public Library (ON). “The conference allowed us to share our successes, issues and the challenges that lay ahead from each other’s vantage point in a casual and, dare I say, jovial environment. I look forward to 2008.”

The numerous advances in digital download technology for libraries will be a major topic at Digipalooza ‘08. Librarians from around North America will learn about the new OverDrive MP3 Audiobook format for iPod® and the advanced mobile suite of features available to library patrons. Attendees will also witness the unveiling of the Digital Bookmobile, a high-tech, 18-wheel community outreach vehicle that will tour North America starting in August.

Digipalooza ‘08 will welcome 300 librarians and industry experts from around North America to lead and attend more than a dozen educational sessions. Topics include: OverDrive digital formats, collection development, managing a ‘virtual branch,’ download reports and statistics, staff training and patron support, community outreach, and best practices. An additional session will provide information on the newest formats offered by OverDrive: MP3 (audiobooks) and EPUB (eBooks). A publisher roundtable featuring representatives from BBC Audiobooks, Books On Tape, Brilliance Audio and HarperCollins will give attendees a preview of upcoming digital library content.

In addition to educational sessions, Digipalooza ‘08 attendees will have the chance to visit Cleveland landmarks like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Progressive Field for a Cleveland Indians Game, and the House of Blues for a party with Donnie Iris and the Cruisers. All events are included in the registration fee.

Digipalooza ‘08 is sponsored by BBC Audiobooks America, Blackstone Audio, Books on Tape, Brilliance Audio, Creative Labs, Harlequin, HarperCollins, and Library Journal. Sponsorships are still available.

Registration is open, but space is very limited. The conference fee for Digipalooza ’08 is $149, and includes educational sessions, meals, and special events. To register or for more information, please visit http://www.Digipalooza.com.

 

About OverDrive, Inc.

OverDrive is a leading full-service digital distributor and supplier of eBooks, audio books, music, and video. We deliver secure management, DRM protection, and download fulfillment services for hundreds of publishers and institutions (rights holders) and thousands of libraries, schools, retailers, and aggregators serving millions of end users. Founded in 1986, OverDrive is based in Cleveland, OH. www.overdrive.com

Media Contact:
David Burleigh
Director of Marketing
OverDrive, Inc.
dburleigh@overdrive.com
216-573-6886 Ext 218

 

###