Staff at the Ashburton Public Library are encouraging people to try out the growing range of eBooks, eAudio and digital resources as the facility prepares to close for three weeks to move into the new library and civic centre, Te Whare Whakatere.

Library Manager Jill Watson says it’s the perfect time to make use of the digital library, which is already proving popular with members.

“It just keeps growing each year. We’ve issued over 10,000 eAudio titles in 2023, which is a 20 per cent increase over last year, and our eBook issues have also lifted by 17 per cent.”

Jill attributes the growth in engagement to effective use of platforms such as Libby, BorrowBox and Hoopla.

“These digital avenues play a crucial role in connecting our community with an expansive collection of literary content, all from the comfort of the home and you can borrow them at any time, 24/7.”

For most people, accessing the library digital services is as simple as installing an app and having their library card handy. However, for those new to the world of eBooks and eAudio, Jill says the library hosts eBook sessions every Tuesday between 2pm and 3pm.

“If you can’t make it to a session, you can always bring your device into the library and one of our staff will be happy to help you get started.”

Alongside the new library building, work has also started on a new library website.

“We have this wonderful new facility with a huge amount to offer the community, and we want to make sure our online presence reflects that,” says Jill.

“The refreshed website will allow people to more easily find out what’s happening at the library and access our growing range of digital resources."

The library will be closed from 1 January until 22 January when it reopens in the new building at 2 Baring Square East.

To browse the library’s range of eBooks, eAudio and digital resources, visit ashburtondc.govt.nz/digital