Abstract: An information distribution system, in accordance with one form of the present invention, includes a central information bank and a central transactional data base coupled to point-of-sale delivery systems. Information flows between each point-of-sale delivery system and the central information bank and central transactional data base via a communication network such as the telephone network, a satellite network, or any other network suitable for the transfer of information. The point-of-sale delivery systems may take one of many forms including a point of purchase delivery system, a point of rental delivery system, a "book bank" subsystem, a promotional delivery system, or any combination of such systems.