I found out about a new OverDrive Media Console for Macs over the weekend. Overdrive makes the architecture for libraries that allows patrons to check out digital content, including ebooks and audiobooks.
The Mac Console isn’t new, it’s been around for three months or so, but it does mark a step toward Mac users being able to get the same econtent from public libraries that Windows users can now.
It looks like Macheads can also check out ebooks, but can’t yet transfer them to an ereader. That’s because the Sony Reader isn’t compatible with Macs, and it’s the only device compatible with Adobe Digital Editions, which manages the DRM for OverDrive ebooks. (This boggles my mind on behalf of both Kindle users and Macheads.)
However, it might not be true. Adobe says on their website that you must have the most current eBook Library software installed in order to use Digital Editions, but the two programs work independently of each other, and eBook Library is the only one that won’t work on a Mac.
I wrote a post a little while ago taking ereader producers to task for sacrificing the functionality of their devices to (try to) make more money. This smacks more of incompetence on Sony’s part than intercorporation stonewalling, but it’s equally as ridiculous.
Anyway, I’ll see if I can get a library book on my Reader from a Mac, and I’ll put the results in a new post.
Not sure how I feel about the Machead moniker. Though I’ll admit my fanaticism will prevent me from abandoning my mac for elibrary access on a reader. We’ve put up with worse over the years, but the functionality is getting better as we moving deeper into the cloud. Here’s hoping when the time comes to buy an ereader my choice of OS doesn’t force me to narrow my options. Calibre works great, and now this, so that’s a start.
As for the Machead thing, get used to it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QMhOIySiyE
Also, “Macca.” Oof.