Both the Wanaka and Hawea libraries are closed at present, but library staff are still working remotely to respond to the needs of their borrowers.

A wide variety of library items can be issued to members online, from audiobooks and e-books, to online newspapers and videos. These are all free of charge and available 24/7.

Over the past week library staff working from home, but connected to Wanaka Library’s management software and communication systems, have fielded a range of enquiries including questions about membership and accessing the range of services the library offers online.

The staff have set up a roster to answer emails and cover phone calls forwarded from the library from 9:00-5:00pm, six days a week. Judging by the response so far, the public are grateful for the continued contact with, and support of, the library staff and the digital library options available.

Accessing the libraries’ resources starts here where there are easy to follow instructions available. 

There are thousands of book titles available for those with a computer, tablet or mobile device (not compatible with Kindle) to download, either as an e-book or an audio book. Click here or just download the free apps Libby and Borrowbox (Bolinda) (there’s different content on each app); login with your library membership details; and choose a title. 

If you’re missing your favourite newspaper or weekly magazine then Pressreader is the solution here. Your library card gives you free access to 6,000 local and international newspapers and magazines in 60 different languages.

For those who are over Netflix, check out Beamafilm here. Beamafilm provides access to hundreds of free independent films and documentaries streamed straight to your screen. These can be streamed straight through your browser or download the app and use ChromeCast/Apple TV to bring it on screen. 

If you need help connecting with any of these resources, Wanaka Library staff are available to answer questions from Monday to Saturday, 9:00-5:00pm either by phoning (03 443 0410) or by email ([email protected]).

Anyone who is not yet a library member but wishes to join can follow this link here or phone/email the library staff for assistance.

The staff are also coming up with inventive things to keep younger members occupied during the lockdown. Check out the library website here for updates on children’s information and resources selected by the librarians. 

While the libraries are closed no physical library items can be issued but those that were already issued before the lockdown was enforced have been extended and do not need to be returned until September 17. As nothing needs to be returned to the library until then, the after hours book drops have been closed.

For further information on library services, updates and creative ideas of how to keep connected during these unusual times follow the library on its social media channels Facebook or instagram.

PHOTO: Supplied