Limewire is a great idea — until you actually use it. The downloads are slow, the risks are palpable and the sound quality faithfully approximates a cup on a string. Pop-music archivists — contemptible, thieving bastards — have a better option in public libraries, which generally possess far better collections than Mom and Dad or the guy next door with the tattoo that translates to "tribal." In rare instances, a superior collection will emerge under the care of a hip library employee. Such is the case at the Main Branch of the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Library, where local musician Clem Stover (Mr. Marco's V7, Wylde Chipmunk & the Cuddly Poos) has assembled a well-endowed rack spanning local bands, indie staples, obscure noise acts and essential major-label goodies that just don't warrant a $12 investment. Thanks to the library's 15-CDs-at-a-time allowance and modest late fees, you can be on the lam for weeks.
