With public libraries closed during the lockdown, people are turning to Virtual Library Membership with the Libraries NI mobile app.
Northern Ireland's public library system has always been an important service for keeping communities connected to education, employment, skills, and reading material. For some, the local library is the only place where they can access a desktop computer and get help with everything from applying to jobs online to helping keep up with their children's educational needs at home.
These services have become all the more invaluable during the pandemic, but the libraries themselves have unfortunately been forced to remain closed for safety. What many people don't realise is that a lot of Libraries NI's services are available online and can be accessed on your smartphone as part of Libraries NI Digital.
You can sign up for Libraries NI online to become a Virtual Library Member and use your virtual library card to borrow digital versions of books, including audiobooks. You can also download the Libraries NI app on Android or iOS to get access to all of your borrowed eBooks and get electronic versions of magazines and newspapers to your phone.
For parents at home during the lockdown, the Libraries NI website has a specific section for young children that includes activities such as colouring sheets and word searches you can print at home. Some aspects of the Libraries NI system are restricted to the computer terminals in the library buildings, such as access to research materials and meeting rooms, but you can upgrade to a full membership at your local library when it re-opens.
Source: Libraries NI
