READERS are entering the digital age thanks to a new online service available to members of Middlesbrough Libraries.

They can access a vast virtual library with a wide range of resources and services free of charge, any time of the day or night from the comfort of their own home.

Using just a library card and PIN number, members can browse the library catalogue, reserve books, renew loans and download e-books.

David Harrington, performance and ICT Officer for Middlesbrough Libraries, said: “E-books are an increasingly popular service - with over 1,000 titles to choose from, users can download to PCs, laptops and compatible e-readers and android devices.

“To enhance this popular service we have doubled the number of e-books people can download to four titles for 21 days.

“Fines are a thing of the past with the e-book service as the titles automatically delete after 21 days.”

Middlesbrough’s virtual library also offers access to a number of online resources that enable users to search across hundreds of historic newspapers, practise for the driving theory test, carry out academic research and much more.

Middlesbrough’s virtual library can be found at http://libraries.middlesbrough.gov.uk and to access the online resources visit www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/onlineresource

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