About the Library

Contact Details

Christchurch City Libraries
work PO Box 1466,
Christchurch 8140,
New Zealand.
workp: +64-3-941-7923
faxf: +64-3-941-7075
urlw: christchurchcitylibraries.com

Playaway Audiobooks

Playaway playerWhat is Playaway?

Playaway is the newest format of audio, combining a wide variety of content with an easy-to-use player all in one small unit.

  • Its portability allows users to enjoy their favourite authors and titles on-the-go, whenever and wherever.
  • The only thing you need to do is press play!
  • Each Playaway contains an entire book, regardless of length (up to 80 hours!).
  • A Playaway can easily fit in a pocket for ultimate portability and multitasking.
  • They come with an automatic bookmark function that remembers where you left off.
  • Playaways have a universal headphone jack that can be used with a number of mobility accessories including portable speakers, FM transmitters, and audio cables to listen in virtually any environment.

More information from Playaway: Getting Started.

Our Trial

Christchurch City Libraries will be trialling this format from November 2008 to May 2009. Each unit will be issued with a form so that we can get your feedback.

Playaway units will be held at the Bishopdale and Diamond Harbour libraries, however a hold may be placed for pick-up at any of our libraries. Playways will be issued for the standard 28 days.

We will have 53 titles available during the trial - search the catalogue for Playway.

Adult titles will cost $2.00 (free for Concession Card holders) and Children’s and Young Adult titles will be free.

FAQ

How much does it cost to borrow Playaway?
Adult titles $2.00 for 28 days (Concession Card free)
Children’s and Young Adult titles free
Does Playaway come with headphones?
You can purchase earphones from the library ($2.50) or use your own headphones.
It is possible to plug Playaway into stand alone speakers or an FM transmitter for use in the car, if they/it has a standard earphone jack to plug into the Playaway unit.
Can I place a hold on Playaway titles?
Yes. A hold can be placed in the usual way.
How long does one AAA battery last?
Every Playaway comes pre-loaded with a standard AAA battery that will provide an average of 20 hours of playtime. The majority of our titles will only require one battery to listen to the entire title. A spare battery is included in the pack.
How do I know how much battery life is left in my unit?
The Playaway LCD has a small battery icon that is displayed on screen. There are three levels of battery life reflected in the icon. When one bar is left in the battery icon, you have 20% power left
How do I change the battery?
There is a tab at the base of the unit that you press in with your thumb nail and the case will open allowing the battery to be removed and replaced with the spare. The used battery can be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way. The spare battery will be replaced when the unit is returned to Bishopdale library.
What do I do if the Playaway locks up?
Like any good storyteller, sometimes the Playaway just needs a moment to catch its breath. First, turn it on and off. If that doesn't solve the problem, remove and reinsert the battery.
The Playaway will not turn on. What do I do?
First, we recommend inserting a fresh battery. If the player still does not turn on, please return to Bishopdale library with a note telling them what the problem is.
How big is a Playaway and how much content can it hold?
Playaway is about half the size of a deck of cards and holds content up to 80 hours of play time.
How does Playaway compare to other types of audiobooks, like CDs, MP3s, and cassettes?
Playaway is the only format of audiobook that does not require a separate player, so it comes ready-to-listen, without the need for a certain type of player or advanced technical know-how. Additionally, Playaway allows the listener to control the speed of the narrator's voice and automatically remembers where you left off when you power down.
How does Playaway compare to digital downloads and other forms of on-the-go downloading like cell phones?
Playaway comes pre-loaded with great stories or information. Just plug-in your headphones and listen wherever you go.
Why can't I add, delete or transfer content on or from a Playaway?
In order to protect the copyrighted works of authors and publishers as traditional books do, you are unable to make copies of Playaway.
After the content on Playaway is enjoyed, it can be easily shared, just like a book.