By Lookout Staff

January 31, 2012 -- Avid readers who have yet to jump on the eBook bandwagon can literally do so next month when the OverDrive Digital Bookmobile makes a stop in Santa Monica.

The stop at the Main Santa Monica Public Library February 10 is part of the Bookmobile's national tour to teach visitors of all ages how to download the Library’s free eBook and eAudiobook collections and to experience the ease and convenience of eReading, library officials said.

“E-Books are the top growth sector in today’s publishing industry," said City Librarian Greg Mullen. "Enthusiasm for e-books is high on the part of Santa Monica Public Library customers.”

The 74-foot Digital Bookmobile tractor trailer is specially equipped and features a Welcome and Orientation area, a high-definition instructional Video Lounge, an Audiobook Alley, the eBook Experience and a Gadget Gallery of Internet-connected portable devices that are compatible with the Library’s newest download service.

Interactive demonstrations will be provided by representatives from OverDrive®, Inc. and Library staff to help users with the service. Visitors to the Digital Bookmobile can sample the Library’s growing collection of bestselling, new release, and classic eBook and eAudiobook titles.

Santa Monica Public Library card holders can check out and download digital titles anytime, anywhere by visiting http://ebook.smpl.org.

"Once downloaded, digital titles can be enjoyed on a computer or transferred to supported mobile devices," library officials said. "Many audio titles can also be burned to audio CD.

"At the end of the lending period, titles will automatically expire and are returned to the digital collection," library officials said. "There are never late fees or damaged items."

The Bookmobile will be stationed in the Library's North lot between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The Santa Monica Public Library is wheelchair accessible. For special disabled services, call Library Administration at (310) 458-8606 at least one week prior to event. The Main Library is served by Big Blue Bus and bicycle racks are available.

The Digital Bookmobile Expo is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Santa Monica Public Library. For more information, the public can call the Santa Monica Public Library at (310) 458-8600; or visit the Library’s web site at www.smpl.org.