e-Books are now available to all public library users
Patrons can now borrow e-books and audiobooks from public libraries throughout the Western Cape as the province launches its technologically enhanced services.
Knysna Municipality Acting Municipal Manager Dawid Adonis said that the demand for online reading has steadily increased over the last few years and that these types of services are catering to those needs.
“During a time where the safest place to be is at home, this initiative offers welcome relief to avid readers,” said Adonis. “With the addition of audiobooks, the new virtual libraries are sure to offer something to everyone.”
Anyone with a registered library card can enjoy free access to the catalogue available through the Western Cape Library Service. New members must first join their local library and will be able to make use of the mobile service after five working days. The services allow patrons to enjoy their books on a number of mobile devices or desktop computers.
One of the most popular platforms is the Libby app available on Apple and Android operating systems. Download the app from your store and follow the easy instructions. Patrons may also access the Overdrive website to borrow books. Overdrive is a global reading platform and distributor of digital content for libraries and schools, offering a large catalogue of e-books and audiobooks that can be accessed and enjoyed at any time. This website contains material across all genres. By clicking on a book title of your choice a synopsis of the book appears that patrons can read. A search function allows the browser to search for a specific title of a book or any other library material. E-books will be available in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa.
“Being able to visit a virtual library during a pandemic is a wonderful example of how technology can enable humans to live better,” said Adonis. “I urge all our library members to make use of this service. Feel free to contact your local library for assistance with navigating the platforms. Then simply sit back and enjoy your story.”
You can access the Overdrive at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmdGluwszCY
For enquiries, please contact tell: 044 302 6519/ 044 302 6308 or 044 302 6311.