How to make the most of your library card this summer

Kids already claiming that they’re bored? We’ve got you!

If you’ve got a library card, you can check out books, films and magazines from your nearby library. But did you know you can also use your card to access books, magazines, audiobooks and films without going anywhere near a library?

Whether you're lounging on the beach, on a road trip or relaxing at home, these online offerings will make sure you’ve got all the entertainment you need to keep the kids quiet… I mean happy… at your fingertips.

Libby

Libby is an app that lets you access a range of ebooks, audiobooks and magazines.

It also has a big selection of children’s titles to keep the little ones entertained.

Download the free Libby app and sign in by selecting your library and entering your library card number. Once logged in, you can explore the catalogue, choose titles and start reading or listening immediately.

Once you’ve loaned something on the app, it’s automatically downloaded into your library so you can read or listen anywhere, even when you’re offline.

Kanopy

Kanopy is a streaming service that offers a curated collection of critically acclaimed films, documentaries and children’s programmes.

You can find everything from award-winning movies, indie gems and documentaries to family-friendly films that everyone can watch together. Kanopy is a great companion for summer nights when you want to unwind with a good movie.

Partnered with universities and public libraries, Kanopy lets you watch ad-free films with your library card. Visit the website or download the app, then give your library card details to start watching.

Hoopla

Hoopla offers ebooks, audiobooks, comics, music, movies and TV shows.

Just like Libby and Kanopy, Hoopla lets you download titles to enjoy offline.

Get the Hoopla app or visit the website, then set up your account with your library card and get ready to be entertained!

Listening Books

Listening Books is a UK charity that gives high-quality audiobooks to people who find it difficult to read or hold a book due to an illness, a disability, a learning difficulty or a mental health condition.

Their library offers thousands of audiobooks in every genre, including fiction, non-fiction, educational titles and children's books.

You don’t need a library card to access Listening books – it works through a membership system. The cheapest membership option is £20 per year but they offer some free memberships to those who can’t afford the fee. Contact them to find out more.