Readers across Harborough are helping to fuel an astonishing surge for digital library services in Leicestershire

Avid readers across Harborough are helping to fuel an astonishing surge for digital library services in Leicestershire.

The county council is now poised to buy in more eBooks and eAudiobooks to keep pace with rocketing demand as people are forced to stay at home during the coronavirus lockdown.

For every month libraries stay shut during the COVID-19 pandemic about 700 new titles and additional copies will be added to the collection for adults and children to access.

So as well as increasing the selection, it also slashes waiting times for the most sought-after items.

Latest figures over the last two months show there's been a 12 per cent spike in digital loans and 35 per cent rise in eBook loans while Borrowbox eBooks and eAudiobooks' users have shot up by 20 per cent.

Leicestershire library members can already access thousands of digital books, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers for free through their phones, tablets or computers.

The digital titles also offer a personalised and accessible experience with options for font sizes, translation and voice-overs.

Cllr Richard Blunt, county council cabinet member for libraries, said: “It's very important that we stay safe and stay at home to protect others and the NHS.

“It’s easy to join the library online and start accessing the digital service straight away.”

He added: “I would encourage anyone to find out more.

“That could be a new member or those people who had visited a library but hadn't signed up for the digital offer."

To start using the digital library, visit: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/digital-libraryFor help with the service or if you have any questions, please call 0116 305 2695 or email [email protected]