Carmarthenshire libraries have become the latest in Wales to introduce the BorrowBox Scheme to their local community. The UK based scheme offers people the chance to access their local libraries digitally and borrow a range of materials through the use of one app.
The BorrowBox service has a wide range of e-books and e-audio books available for you to download onto your computer or most mobile devices to read and to listen to. There are English and Welsh language books, fiction and non-fiction, and books for adults and children.
Organisers of the scheme say,
“The BorrowBox scheme will make it easy for those using it to browse, borrow and read or listen to e books and audio books anywhere and everywhere.”
Local library members can browse and borrow bestselling e-books and e-audiobooks on any Apple iOS and Google Android device for limited periods through digital loans. MP3 audio files are accessible and compatible with all devices.
It also means that the libraries are available all day, every day for the community in a new age of accessibility. Users can make a list of their favourites to borrow (Reading Lists) and keep an eye on their books on loan through the app.
Carmarthen Library launched the scheme with a fairy-tale Jack and the Bean Stalk style display, encouraging readers to sign up for access to an ever-growing list of books. The colourful display marked a new era for readers and libraries which have struggled in the pandemic and had to re think their ways of working. Interest in the scheme has been steadily growing as it has been introduced across west Wales in the wake of Libraries week on 4th-8th October and the many events going on to celebrate our libraries and our love of reading. Carmarthenshire County Council have been posting pictures of the BorrowBox displays at libraries across Carmarthenshire to encourage the community to get involved.
Councillor Peter Hughes-Griffiths said,
“Carmarthenshire Libraries have seen a huge increase in customers using and enjoying the BorrowBox service since the start of lockdown and this has continued since restrictions have eased. BorrowBox has such a wide range of e-Books and e-Audiobooks with fiction and nonfiction for all ages in Welsh and English. Being able to download them on to your computer or mobile devices makes it so convenient to use.”
BorrowBox gives you access to an ever-growing list of e-Books and e-Audiobooks and includes a fantastic selection of No Queue titles which can be enjoyed instantly.
If you’re thinking of signing up, here’s some more information.
How do I use BorrowBox?
- Join the library if you are not already a member
- On your tablet / smart phone download the BorrowBox app via your app store. If using your PC or MAC go direct to BorrowBox.
- Follow the instructions on screen and create an account using your library card.
- Browse the collection 24/7 by title, author or category. Preview titles before borrowing. Confirm your choice or reserve a title for later.
- Download your title instantly or at any time during the loan period. When reserved titles are ready for downloading you will receive an email to your registered address (updated via “My Account”).
- Once logged in BorrowBox has a comprehensive help section and also provides technical support: support@bolindadigital.com
Get the app now from the App Store and Google Play and start borrowing, downloading and enjoying e-books and e-audiobooks today. Or visit the Carmarthenshire BorrowBox website.
Watch the tutorial below on with Matthew from Ammanford Library – Matthew guides you through how to sign up for BorrowBox, how to use it and how to make the most of the free service.
BorrowBox is available throughout west Wales – Find your local library here.
