Important Notice!
We will shortly be discontinuing the NetLibrary service. We hope to replace it with a new vendor that allows the downloaded audiobooks to be played on Macs and Ipods as well as PCs.

What are downloadable audiobooks?

These are digital versions of audiobooks available through the Internet. They can be played on a computer or portable device that supports Windows Media Player version 9.0 (and above), MusicMatch or Nullsoft Winamp5 software. Netlibrary, which provides this service, has a list of of supported devices.

Why can't I download to my IPod?

Talk to Apple Computers. They have decided that they will not make their audiobook collection available to libraries.

How do I get started?

You must come to the library to sign up for your free NetLibrary account. Once here, you can set up an account yourself on any Internet computer. Access NetLibrary by clicking on the audiobook logo on the Northbrook Public Library Website (there's one on the upper corner of this page) or go to www.netlibrary.org.Click on "Create a Free Account" in the upper right hand corner. Enter your identifying information (user name, password and email address). Click "Create Account". You can now access your account from home.

Can I download audiobooks at the library?

You can if you bring your laptop and use our wireless network.

How do I download audiobooks?

It's easy! Go to NetLibrary audiobook page using your own computer. A high-speed connection is highly recommended. Cookies must be enabled.

You can search by author, title, subject, or narrator.

Make your selection.

• Click "Download this Audiobook".

• Select a download option.

  • Most portable listening devices require the use of CD Quality downloads.

  • Radio Quality is recommended for users with dial-up connections.

  • Download time with Broadband for a 9-hour book is approximately:

    • 10 minutes for CD quality

    • 4 minutes for Radio quality

  • Download time with dial-up for a 12-hour book is approximately:

    • 490 minutes for CD quality

    • 33 minutes for radio quality

• Select "Save" and save the file to a directory of your choice on your computer.

• When the download is complete, open the audiobook directly from the Windows media player menu. You may then listen to the audiobook or transfer it to your listening device.

Six titles may be downloaded at one time and they are available for a 3-week period. They can be renewed once.

For more detailed information, visit NetLibrary's Help page. To receive help by phone, call NetLibrary at 1-800-848-5800.