North Wales libraries offering free e-books and audio books to pass the time during lockdown

The closure of north Wales’ libraries has seen a scramble for e-Books and other alternative means as readers look for ways to pass the time during  lockdown.

Libraries were among the first facilities to close last month as authorities sought to limit social contact before the Government’s enforced Covid-19 lockdown.

But according to councils across the region, this has led to a clamour for alternative means to access both learning and recreational material to pass the time spent at home.

Thanks to the digital offer provided by Welsh Libraries, it’s possible for library service members to access all sorts of resources online, all free of charge through any internet accessible device.

This includes e-books, e-audio books through Borrowbox, e-magazines and e-comics through RB Digital and the family history site ancestry.

Cllr Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries said: “With everyone now at home for long periods of time, it’s important for us all to entertain ourselves and stay busy.

“Resources like these will be of great comfort to many, especially with all of them being available for free.

“All these resources are available in Welsh and English and are suitable for adults, children and young people.

“Here’s a great opportunity for everyone to have something to keep them occupied during these troubled times.”

The all-Wales service includes e-books in Welsh and English and e-audio books, for adults, children and young people, with also an app for users of mobile devices.

It is possible to borrow up to 10 e-audiobooks (and 10 e-books) at a time, for 21 days.

For those not currently members of a library, it is usually possible to do so online.

A spokesman for Anglesey Council added: “In response to the current situation all our libraries buildings, mobile and housebound services are closed.

“As you are not able to return books, you won’t be fined and they will be automatically renewed.

“Please keep your books at home. You won’t be able to reserve books while we try to reshape our service. Please accept our apologies about this.

“Remember that you can download e-books, e-audiobooks and magazines free from our website.“

For more information and links to your local library service, visit wales.ent.sirsidynix.net.uk

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter