Clarence Valley libraries and members have adapted quickly to changes to library services due to COVID-19.

When the Federal Government announced libraries would close last month, Clarence Regional Library quickly diverted resources to its eLibrary, providing library members with access to over 7000 eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and educational resources.

In two weeks more than 2,100 digital books and 700 eMagazines have been downloaded – twice as many as the previous fortnight.

The library also launched the Clarence Regional Library app, allowing members to connect with their library safely and easily from home on a smartphone or tablet.

The library app has already been downloaded to 700 devices.
Because not all library members have online access at home, Clarence Valley libraries also introduced a Click/Call & Connect service.

Click/Call & Connect allows members to pre-order books by phone or online, then collect their reservations safely, practising social distancing, from the front door of their local library.

Click/Call & Collect Feedback on Facebook:

“Such a wonderful thing that our libraries are still there for us. Thank you to our fabulous librarians.” – Gail

“Wonderful idea – not everyone is tech savvy.” – Virginia

The library service is also delivering online events to engage and connect with communities in these times of isolation.

Digital events include a weekly Lego challenge, The End of the Word Book Club, Writers’ Corner and storytime – all delivered online.

FUN FACTS:

The most borrowed eAudiobook for March was Persuader by Lee Child with 36 loans.

The most borrowed eBook for March was Lonely Girl by Lynne Vincent with 22 loans.

Since libraries closed, 50 new members have signed up for library cards.
To stay up to date on all things library, follow Clarence Regional Library on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.