Yup.

I finally did it.

Downloaded an audio book from my local public library website. And transferred it from a Mac to my iPod.

For years audio books have been available. But I found it impossible to download them to an Apple computer.

The Calgary Public Library opted to partner with a company called OverDrive, Inc. . (boo, hiss)

I doubt there’s a more complicated, difficult way to download an audio book than the disaster called Overdrive Media Console. You must choose from downloads in 12 different formats!

Complicated, or what?

In the mean time iTunes, Amazon and Audible downloads are one click from any computer. Dead simple.

… OverDrive has faced criticism from some libraries and library patrons for its use of digital rights management protection technology from Microsoft on the audiobooks it distributes. This form of content protection prevents Apple Mac and iPod users from using digital audiobooks from their library’s download website on their Apple devices.

In March 2008, OverDrive announced that it would distribute a collection of around 3,000 audiobooks in the MP3 format. These audiobooks will be compatible with most digital audio players including the iPod.

On November 19, 2008, OverDrive also released the OverDrive Media Console for Mac, which allows Mac owners to download and listen to MP3 audiobooks from their library on a home computer. …

They’ve done everything they can to keep their downloads off the #1 listening device in the world. Especially if you use an Apple computer.

I’ve yet another reason to hate digital rights management protection technology from Microsoft.

Libraries … If you don’t want me to “borrow” audio books, no problem. But don’t pretend you offer this service, then make the process so difficult borrowers want to kill themselves.

My advice. Dump OverDrive, Inc.

There’s no “fixing” that mess.