In this session, we’ll explore how audiobooks can transform recreational reading and engagement on a college campus. By adopting audiobooks as an extension of our existing browsing collection, we’ve been able to provide greater accessibility, collect diverse and trending literary genres, and support busy students who may not have time for traditional reading formats. Audiobooks also help us reach remote and distance learners, ensuring equitable access for all community members.
We’ll share insights into our decision-making process, including why we chose the Cost Per Circ model for greater flexibility and our selection of OverDrive over other options to meet user needs. Attendees will get a look at the behind-the-scenes effort required for maintenance, customization, and troubleshooting. Additionally, we’ll discuss broader trends in audiobook usage and how they align with library and university missions to foster leisure reading and lifelong learning. Join us to learn how to leverage audiobooks as a dynamic tool to engage and support your academic community.
About the Presenters Meghan Webb is the Instruction and Outreach Librarian at the Z. Smith Reynolds Library at Wake Forest University. Kathy Shields is the Research and Instruction Librarian for History and Social Science at the Z. Smith Reynolds Library at Wake Forest. Kate Silton is Electronic Resources Librarian at the Z. Smith Reynolds Library Wake Forest University.
