Want to read a library book that's already reserved? Grab the audio version.

There's more to Tracy's simple library hack than meets the eye (or ear, in this case). Note how she's creatively carving out time for her interests by using moments that might otherwise go to waste.

This isn't so much a hack for kids, but for parents.  Time is so limited when you have little ones around.  I find, as I'm sure many other parents do, that my own hobbies tend to fade into the background.  So, here's my hack: if you want to read a recent best-seller and a gazillion people have already reserved it at the library, consider checking out the audio version. 

At my local library, 209 people reserved a popular book I wanted to read, but only one person reserved the version on CD.  I imported the audiobook into my iTunes library, stuck it on my iPod, and now I can "read" while doing household activities.

This is one of those rare times when my multi-tasking is for ME!!

Brava, Tracy! Your hack is a great reminder than even when there's "no time" for yourself, there's time. It's not always easy to find, but it's there. And you deserve it.

Related: Listen to audiobooks during "in-between" times

Comments

[Christy]

You can also check out the large print versions. They are not usually as requested as the regular versions. Plus, they are MUCH easier on the eyes!

[jesser]

I find the same thing ... 300 reserves on the paper, 3-5 on the CDs. I rip them to my player while I'm at work. Also, if your library is all digital, you can get books on your smart phone (tablet, kindle?) thru Overdrive Media Console. I get both audio and digital books that way and it's brilliant! I don't even have to go to the library.

[Alex]

I love audio books. I'm a runner so I don't listen to music on the long runs, I listen to audio books. I also have a commute in the morning about 20 minutes, so that is a perfect time too.

[Asha Dornfest]

Jesser: Last time I tried I had a terrible time with my library's electronic check-out system for digital and audiobooks. I'll need to give it another try. It's surprising because my library system (Multnomah County Library) is AMAZING.