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City of Wollongong

10 ways to enjoy the library at home

Friday 9 July 2021

With the current stay-at-home direction extended, Wollongong City Libraries want to remind book lovers, curious toddlers, weekly movie renters, hardworking students and all other library goers, that you can enjoy the library from home.

Library members have free access to a range of digital and online services to help you pass the time including movies, documentaries, eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines, music, comics, online workshops, children’s books and much more.

“There is a whole world to unlock at the library, so it’s a great time to remind our community how much you can still access at home,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“The Library catalogue on the Wollongong City Libraries website makes it easy to decide what to read, view or listen while you’re staying at home. Our libraries also provide Library members acess to a selection of free digital platforms – like Libby, BorrowBox, Hoopla and Kanopy – to download or stream the entertainment of your choice.

“Our online library services are for everyone and there is something to suit any age and interest. Despite the current stay at home orders, our libraries are committed to help you learn something new, rediscover your favourite novel or simply relax with a film or music.”

Not a library member? You can join online, and membership is free. Simply visit the Wollongong City Libraries website.

Library members can also download the Wollongong City Libraries app directly from the App Store for Apple devices or Google Play for Android devices by searching for Wollongong City Libraries.

“We can’t wait to welcome you back to our libraries! But in the meantime, I hope that everyone takes the time to make use of our online library services and check out what our amazing libraries have to offer.” Cr Bradbery said.

Here are 10 free resources you can unlock with your library membership.

1. Download an eBook or listen to an eAudiobook

Library members can access so many great eBook or eAudiobook platforms such as Hoopla, Libby, BorrowBox, EBSCO eBooks or indyreads.

Borrowing an eBook from the library is just like borrowing a regular book. There are often multiple copies of each book available for loan.

If you’re stuck for suggestions, our library staff can help you out with a recommend reading list on our website.

2. Read the latest eMagazines for free ­

With the digital platform Libby you can access a range of digital magazines online for free.

3. Keep up to date with digital newspapers  

NewsBank has digital newspapers from across Australia.

4. Story Box Library

For children who love books, join us online to access great stories read by Australian and New Zealand storytellers.

5. Kanopy

Watch award-winning movies, documentaries and TV shows with Kanopy, our free on-demand film screening service. You can watch up to 12 movies each month, and you have three days to watch each film.

6. Hoopla

Not only can you borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks, but you can also borrow movies, music and comics! Whether you’re looking to start streaming immediately, or to download and enjoy at a later date, Hoopla has flexible borrowing options to suit everyone. Want to watch your borrowed movies and shows on the big screen? Hoopla supports Chromecast for televisions!

7. Learn a new language with Mango and LOTE Online for Kids

Mango and LOTE Online make learning another language an enjoyable and intuitive experience.

8. Get expert help with Studiosity

Studiosity is a 24/7 online tutoring service that provides a range of resources for students from Year 3 to Year 12, TAFE and university. Get help with your homework today.

9. Wollongong City Libraries YouTube channel

Check out our channel for family-fun activities! Channel your inner chef or challenge yourself by creating something new.

10. Learn more about the history of our city

Discover Wollongong through the eyes of local community members with Illawarra Stories.


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