Playaway audiobooks

What is Playaway?

Playaway combines a wide variety of audio content with an easy-to-use player all in one small unit. Enjoy your 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.
• Fits in your pocket.
• Comes with an automatic bookmark function.
• Has a universal headphone jack.

More information from Playaway: Getting Started.

Frequently asked questions

General

Where can I find Playaways in the library?

Playaways are on the shelves with the audiovisual material.

How many Playaways does the library have?

The size of the collection at each library is very small, but we add new titles each month. We move Playaways from library to library depending on where each Playaway is returned

How do I find Playaways in the catalogue?

Search by keyword Playaway, subject Audiobooks or title or author.

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 up to 80 hours of play time.

How much does it cost to borrow Playaway?

Adult titles are $2.00 for 28 days (concession card free); Children’s and Young Adult titles are free.

Using Playaway

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.

How do I get the story back to the beginning?

To move through chapters, quickly tap the FFWD or Reverse button up or down. To rewind or forward the story a short distance, hold down the FFWD or Reverse button.

Can I use Playaway with my mobile accessories?

Yes, Playaway comes with a universal headphone jack that allows you to use it with a number of accessories including portable speakers, FM transmitters and audio cables.

Earbuds and batteries

Do I have to to use earbuds?

You can use earbuds, or you can plug Playaways into stand alone speakers or an FM transmitter for use in the car, provided that you have a standard earphone jack to plug into the Playaway unit.

Does Playaway come with earbuds?

No, because of hygiene they don’t, but you can purchase earbuds from the library for $2.50.

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. When we issue a Playaway to you, 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 provides an average of 20 hours of playtime. The majority of our titles 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?

At the base of the unit, press the a tab with your thumb nail. The case opens so you can remove the battery and replace it with the spare. Please dispose of the used battery in an environmentally friendly way.

Playaway compared to other content

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 — it comes ready to listen to. It allows you to control the speed of the narrator’s voice and automatically remembers where you got to if you turn it off.

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.

Troubleshooting

Why can’t I add, delete or transfer content on or from a Playaway?

To protect the copyrighted works of authors and publishers.

What do I do if the Playaway locks up?

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?

Try inserting a fresh battery. If the player still does not turn on, please return it to the library and tell a librarian about the problem.