This week we’re discussing how to make the most of your library experience from the comfort of your phone.
There are two apps you’ll want to download to optimize the library’s offerings: the Libby app, and the VLC Library app.
Let’s start with Libby, your go-to audiobook app. Libby provides access to over 100,000 books and audiobooks that are compatible with Amazon’s ereaders, so you can borrow and send them to your phone, tablet, or Kindle with ease.
There are plenty of filters that allow you to sort between books, including: newest, most popular, coming soon, available now, and so on. Other features include changing the playback speed, setting a sleep timer for audiobooks, adjust lighting/dimming settings, and changing font size to accommodate large print or dyslexia preferences.
You can also manage your loans and holds directly from this app, renew a book (or audiobook), or browse Libby’s collection of curated reading guides to get ideas for your next read.
Lastly, our access to the digital library collective has recently expanded, allowing you to add 6 other libraries to your Libby app (in addition to our own White Pine Library Cooperative), and giving patrons access to thousands of added books. Stop in for a step-by-step process of how to add these additional libraries, or head to our website for more information.
The second app that’s helpful for navigating all-things library is the VLC Library App. The easiest way to find and download this app is to visit our website in your phone’s browser, scroll halfway down the page, and click on the download button. You can also locate this app directly in the App Store or on Google Play.
The VLC Library app allows you to add your family members to your account, keep track of your checkouts, holds, fines, and stay up to date with the library’s calendar. When you put an item on hold, it might be coming from another library, and we can text, call, or email you depending on how you set up your preferences in the app. You can also narrow your search to look for a book at the Wickson Library, or search for a book in the entire system.
If you’re an avid reader or simply want a convenient library experience at your fingertips, these apps are a great place to begin. I find myself bouncing between these apps daily. Like anything, the more you navigate these apps, the easier they’ll get.
Adults 18 and over can join us at the library for “Tech @ 10,” beginning Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 10 AM. We’ll discuss smartphone basics and allow patrons the opportunity to ask any tech questions they may have.
In the meantime, if you have questions or need help finding, downloading, or navigating these apps, don’t hesitate to stop by and ask us for help. We’re happy to help you set up your account. Happy reading!