Accessing books during lockdown
Are you looking to find books to read during Lockdown?
A survey by The Reading Agency showed that 45% of young people (18-24 year olds) are reading more in lockdown. Our own Wellbeing team often cites reading as a valuable way of unwinding. Audiobooks provide a great way to get away from screens for a while.
But with libraries currently closed, it can be tricky to get hold of books to read. Here’s some suggestions for websites that have free books that can be read online or downloaded in various formats. Please note – as these websites are free, not every book is available, but fingers crossed you will all be able to find some books to enjoy!
The library, formed with The National Literacy Trust, has been launched after measures were taken to close schools in England to the majority of pupils until February half-term.
Children will be provided with a free-to-access book every week from the library’s author of the week.
Dame Jacqueline Wilson’s The Story Of Tracy Beaker, illustrated by Nick Sharratt, is the first book to feature and will be entirely free to access and read for a week from January 17.
2) Many Books
Many Books has a broad selection of modern and classic books waiting to be discovered. All free and available in most ereader formats.
3) Smashwords
The Smashwords Store provides an opportunity to discover new voices in all categories and genres of the written word. Once you register, the site offers useful tools for search, discovery and personal library management. Most of the books are affordably priced and multi-format. Over 70,000 of the books are priced at free.
4) Local Library eBooks
Many local libraries have signed up to Borrowbox or similar and have online eBooks available to borrow. If your local library is part of Libraries West you can access eBooks on at the online Libraries West eBook site. If you are not currently a member of your local library, you can find out more and register following this link.
Or if your local library uses the Borrowbox you will have access to eBooks and audiobooks via the app.
Happy reading!