Audiobooks are the fastest-growing format in book publishing — and libraries are seeing the demand firsthand. Some local libraries experienced as much as a 25% increase in audiobook downloads in 2024 alone, with over a 100% increase since 2020, when use of digital resources began to soar. Libraries across Columbia County are facing the challenge of keeping up with the ever-growing demand for digital audiobooks.
In response, the Columbia County Libraries Association is excited to announce the acquisition of Blackstone Unlimited, a new audiobook platform offering over 7,000 always-available titles for both adults and children. With Blackstone Unlimited, there are no holds and no wait times — making it easier than ever for library patrons to enjoy their favorite books on the go.
This new service is made possible thanks to a generous grant from the HRBT Foundation.
Any resident of Columbia County with a library account in good standing can access Blackstone Unlimited and download up to 10 audiobooks at a time. There are no due dates, so patrons can keep books as long as they need to. Once the 10-book limit is reached, patrons simply return titles from their virtual library to check out additional audiobooks.
The Blackstone Unlimited catalog offers a wide selection of classic titles alongside popular authors such as Karin Slaughter, M.C. Beaton, Jeneva Rose, Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Donna Leon, Hugh Howey, and James Clavell. The collection complements the audiobook offerings on Libby, providing patrons with even more listening options.
Blackstone Unlimited is accessible on the web or through the Blackstone Unlimited app, available for download on Apple and Google Play stores. When signing up for the app, patrons should search for "Columbia County Libraries Association" rather than the name of their individual member library to access the service. Whether commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home, Columbia County library patrons can now enjoy easy access to thousands of audiobooks — with no waiting.
For more information on how to access Blackstone Unlimited, visit your local Columbia County library or visit the CCLA website at https://columbiacountylibraries.org.
The Columbia County Libraries Association (CCLA), incorporated as a non-profit, tax-exempt organization by the State of New York and designated a 501c3 organization by the IRS in 2022, supports the 11 public, association, and school district libraries in Columbia County by facilitating cooperation between libraries to better serve all the residents of Columbia County. The CCLA serves all 60,000 residents of Columbia County, NY. The association has existed since 1988, but only recently became officially incorporated. Activities of the CCLA include purchasing shared library resources such as online databases, shared book collections, and shared museum passes, financing shared technology and services, and sponsoring joint programs.
The Roeliff Jansen Community Library is located at 9091 Route 22, Hillsdale NY. For information on hours and events, call 518-325-4101 or visit the library’s website at http://www.roejanlibrary.org.
Comments