Kitsap Regional Library has joined Library Ideas’ network of public library websites that offer free access to songs from Sony Music’s catalog.

The service, called Freegal, allows KRL to increase the size and diversity of its collection by offering access to nearly 1.5 million songs. Under the terms of the agreement, registered KRL card holders can download three music tracks each week at no direct cost via www.krl.org.

The library will pay Freegal a subscription rate to support the cost of the downloads. Freegal offers access to the Sony Music catalog and independent record companies and opens doors to music from around the world.

KRL cardholders will access the Freegal website directly or by a link from the KRL website. Once they have logged in, they can search for specific music or browse the catalog. Songs are downloaded as MP3 files and are compatible with iTunes and other music library software.