LiveWire Library service sees a 229% increase in E-Book Service during lock-down
LiveWire’s library buildings may be temporarily closed but the service still has a lot to offer the residents of Warrington. Following the temporary closure of LiveWire’s libraries on Friday 20th March, LiveWire’s online offer has gone from strength to strength with the introduction of e-Comics, the expansion of the e-Book collection through additional funding from Arts Council England, online videos on a variety of topics focused on wellbeing, coding activities and at-home exercises. During the lock-down period there has been a 229% increase in eBook borrowing with the online offer attracting 378 new members to the service.
LiveWire are continuing to look at ways to expand the libraries digital services to help with stimulating the minds of adults and children alike. Next week will see the launch of three new weekly virtual clubs to help Warrington’s resident’s to get thinking creatively. This will include a lego club, adult reading group, and photography tutorials with a different theme each week.
Cheryl Siddall, Strategic Lead for Libraries at LiveWire, said: “Libraries have always had an important role to play in supporting Warrington’s communities and during this time of increased isolation, libraries are more important than ever. Nationally libraries have had to respond and adapt to change to ensure communities continue to benefit from their services and Warrington is no different. Continuing to increase our digital offering through initiatives like these is a great example of the role libraries continue to play in supporting wellbeing and to help combat social isolation in our communities.”
For more information on all the activities and events on offer and how to get involved visit https://livewirewarrington.co.uk/hereForYou
For more information or interview requests, please contact Cheryl Siddall on csiddall@livewirewarrington.org
About LiveWire:
LiveWire is a Community Interest Company (CIC) that has been managing leisure, library and lifestyle services in Warrington since May 2012. The organisation is now the largest provider of leisure and library facilities in the town, operating three neighbourhood hubs, three leisure centres, and 12 libraries which have attracted more than three million visitors over the last year.
LiveWire strives to promote a healthy lifestyle, increased participation in activities whilst encouraging reading and learning through the use of free access to books, IT suites and the internet. They provide value for money leisure memberships and are committed to ensuring facilities and activities are accessible for all members of the community.
