The season for giving - and borrowing?
Christmas is a great time for giving, but how about treating yourself to something that lasts all year round - for free?
Joining your local library opens up a world of information, entertainment and opportunity. You can access it all by visiting one of Warwickshire County Council’s 34 libraries or five mobiles - or from the comfort of your own home, via the internet, 24/7.
“Libraries are still about books, but a great deal more besides,” said Linda Smith, Head of Libraries (Operations). “Our staff are friendly and welcoming, and always eager to help new customers find their way around and discover what’s available. Nowadays we also have virtual librarians who can respond to enquiries 24 hours a day.”
Linda said Warwickshire libraries had changed a lot in recent years, with lots of new technology to bring the service bang up to date. From e-books to ipod-style audio books, self-service check-outs, Google-style catalogues, internet-linked public computers (with 30 minutes free time per person, per day), and online renewals and reservations.
Warwickshire library members get free access to an expanding range of online subscription services, such as the Driver Theory Test or ancestry.com. And free public wifi will soon be available in all Warwickshire libraries for added customer convenience.
“Our more traditional library services still provide people with free book loans - up to ten at any one time - along with low-cost CD and DVD rental, faxing and photocopying,” said Linda.
“Plus we run lots of activities all year round such as Rhyme Time sessions for under-fives, author visits and local history events. We really do have something for everyone and joining is absolutely free.”
To get your Warwickshire library card, simply call in to any branch or visit warwickshire.gov.uk/libraries to apply online. We have a special card for junior members and you are never too young - or too old - to join. Merry Christmas!