TAVISTOCK Library is piloting the latest word in audiobooks — on MP3-format CDs.

Tavistock is the first library in Devon to offer this format, which is likely to become standard for spoken word books in the future.

The new format looks just like a regular CD, but has a greater capacity to store information. Around ten regular CDs can be squeezed onto a single MP3 CD, meaning a book can be recorded onto a single disc — or occasionally, for very hefty tomes, two.

The discs can be played on regular CD players, on computers or any MP3 player.

Apart from being very much smaller and lighter, the new format should be of great benefit to those with a serious visual impairment, as it will no longer be necessary to work out which CD is needed to hear the next part of the story — it should all fit onto one.

For those with MP3-compatible CD players or MP3 connectivity in their car stereo systems, the new format could also mean a more interesting commute without the hassle of changing CDs or tapes.

It can also be transferred to any MP3 device, including iPods for personal use.

Special services librarian Geoff Green said: 'I hope that many blind or visually impaired customers will find this format much easier to manage. The format is much more attractive and compact and very easy to use.'

The county's executive member for culture, Cllr Sheila Hobden, said: 'This is a great development and I look forward to seeing it rolled out across other libraries.'

MP3 audio discs are charged at the same price as all other audio media, and are free for those with visual impairment.

They will be available in Tavistock Library from now until the end of the year, after which time feedback will be sought before the system is rolled out across the county.