In its efforts to expand its foreign language materials collection, the DeSoto Library has added electronic books to the library catalog. Ebooks are available from the Texas State Library to read on a computer. Eaudiobooks are available from a subscription with Recorded Books to download to a listening device, such as a MP-3 player (but currently not an IPOD). Hundreds of titles are available, covering dozens of languages. Patrons can choose an “interface language” if they prefer to search the electronic books catalog in a language other than English. A catalog of these materials is available through the library page on the city website, www.ci.desoto.tx.us. Patrons must come into the library to register to use these electronic books, much like getting an electronic library card. Once a patron is registered, the books can be searched, downloaded, viewed, heard, and renewed from any Internet accessible computer.

The library also has foreign language sound recordings, including English as a second language. Many of the library’s DVDs have a language selection option, usually English, French, or Spanish, including subtitles. The library continues to build its foreign language book and magazine collection, most of which can be checked out. If the library doesn’t have the needed materials, patrons can request items through Interlibrary Loan, which is a nationwide search to borrow materials from lending libraries across the country.

So, whether you’re planning a trip to a faraway land, studying for a class, or having fun learning another language, the DeSoto Library has the materials and formats you need! For more information, please come by the library, 211 E. Pleasant Run, call the library at 972-230-9665, or use the “Ask a librarian” link on the library webpage on the city website, www.ci.desoto.tx.us.