Playaway Audiobooks

What 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.

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

Where are Playaways shelved in the library?

With the rest of the audiovisual material.

How many Playaways does the library have?

The size of the collection at each library is very small. New titles are being added each month. Playaways tend to move from library to library depending on where each Playaway is returned

How will I know how to use Playaway?

All units have simple instructions either on the inside of the front cover of the case; or on the left hand side of the back cover.

Does Playaway come with earbuds?

No. Earbuds can be purchased from the library for $2.50.

Are earbuds needed to hear Playaways?

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.

How many batteries need to be included when a Playaway is issued and returned?

Two. One in the unit, and the other in the case. On issue both batteries will have at least one bar of life available.

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.

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 it to the library and tell a librarian 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.

How can Playaways be searched for in the catalogue?

Keyword search using 'Playaway'; subject search by 'Audiobooks'; title or author search.