Catherine Coles
Coles’ Notes
As I write this column, all of Lennox & Addington’s library branches are closed to the public as a preventative measure to minimize the possible spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) through social distancing. I wanted to take the opportunity to note how you can continue to get your reading fix, even though we are closed and you may be self-isolation.
How do I access these services?
All you need to access these services is a library card number and PIN. If you don’t have a library card, you can register for a temporary pass online via our website at www.CountyLibrary.ca. If you have forgotten your library card and/or PIN number, please email me at ccoles@lennox-addington.on.ca.
What’s available?
We have lots of interesting resources online, including Mango Languages (a language-learning software) and NoveList (a database full of librarian-vetted read-alike suggestions). What I want to talk about here, however, is our e-books, audiobooks and streaming video services.
First of all, there is Overdrive (also sometimes known as Libby). You’ll need to download the Libby app on your phone or tablet and connect it to us using your library card number and library PIN. From there, you’ll have access to hundreds of thousands of free books (ebooks and audiobooks), including plenty of bestsellers and new releases. Fair warning: there might be a waitlist if you’re looking to read a very popular book.
Your second option is Hoopla Digital. It is also available as an app – just search your app store for the word Hoopla. Hoopla gives you access to hundreds of thousands of e-books, audiobooks, movies, television show episodes, comics, music albums, and more. You can stream them in your browser or download them to your smart device. It even works with Chromecast, Apple Play, Roku, etc. Everything is available for you on-demand – no waiting! The only catch is that you are only allotted five borrowing credits (per library card) each month. This is because the library pays each time you check out an item. Parents should note that Hoopla also offers a Kids Mode setting where all content shown while in Kids Mode is deemed suitable for children 12 years and under.
Just a side note on closed libraries: if you have materials currently on loan, we would prefer that you keep them until we re-open. However, our exterior item returns remain available at this time. Due dates have been extended and no new fines will be charged during this closure.
While the world is a scary place at the moment, I hope you keep healthy and are able to fit in a bit more time to read than you might otherwise!