The Free Library of Philadelphia unveiled a redesigned website today that emphasizes freedom of information and improved online access to the library's collections. According to a report I heard on WHYY, the website now offers free online access to hundreds of audio books, which can be downloaded and played on home computers or on digital music players.
While I love the look of the new site, I have to say that my first visit left me grasping at straws. After hearing the report about the site on WHYY today, I went to the site, looking for an introduction to it and to the newly available resources. Couldn't find that anywhere. Nor could I find a listing of the audio book podcasts I had heard about on the radio.
I must say, though, that the most important part of the site -- access to the library catalogues -- is much improved. If you're looking for a book, just enter a search term into the "Find" box on the home page, and bam -- a listing of resources pops right up. The speed and layout of the catalogue is much improved in this iteration of the site.
It's good to see the Free Library joining the 21st century.
Thanks for the post, Matt--I
Thanks for the post, Matt--I missed the news about the library's new site. I agree with your assessment that it's a bit rough in places, but wow, their search results have pictures now! 21st century indeed.