Libraries news updates

Wiltshire Libraries are working with Libraries Connected (opens new window) to increase the availability of digital content to public libraries. A book and eBook borrowing and buying survey for library users has been created as part of this.

Complete the borrowing books and eBooks survey (opens new window) to be entered into a prize draw for the chance to win one of three £100 shopping vouchers. 

Closing date: Monday 30 September 2024. 

Wiltshire Libraries are working with Libraries Connected (opens new window) to increase the availability of digital content to public libraries and Libraries Connected have organised two free online author talks in September.

The titles are available to borrow as eBooks and can be found in Libby App: Online Author Talks (opens new window) on the Libby website and app.

Thank you to everyone that attended one of our free Reading Roadshow author events in June. Details of the Autumn Reading Roadshow events, including events to discuss our Roadshow Reads - A Bird in Winter by Louise Doughty and Thinking about it only makes it worse by David Mitchell, can be found below.

The Roadshow Reads and eBooks and eAudiobooks by authors involved in the roadshow can be found in Reading Roadshow 2024 (libbyapp.com) (opens new window) on the Libby website and app.

You can now borrow activity tracker watches and blood pressure monitors from the following libraries:

• Bradford on Avon Library (opens new window)
• Calne Community Hub and Library (opens new window)
• Chippenham Library (opens new window)
• Corsham Library (opens new window)
• Devizes Library (opens new window)
• Melksham Library (opens new window)
• Royal Wootton Bassett Library (opens new window)
• Salisbury Library (opens new window)
• Trowbridge Library (opens new window)
• Warminster Library (opens new window)
• North mobile library - Routes (opens new window)
• South mobile library - Routes (opens new window)

Libraries in Wiltshire are extending a warm welcome to all and providing a range of help, support, advice and comfort to people who may be struggling, or want tips to help with the cost of living.

Wiltshire libraries are offering:

• a free warm space to sit, stay and take part in activities
• hot drinks, where possible
• basic energy advice in all but our smallest libraries and referrals to the energy advisors at Warm and Safe Wiltshire (opens new window)
• free SIMs and mobile data at Chippenham, Devizes, Salisbury, Trowbridge and Warminster libraries to those that meet the National Databank eligibility criteria
• signposting to community partners and agencies that can support you through the rising cost of living

Our libraries also offer free access to books, newspapers, Wi-Fi, computers and digital support.

For people who are housebound or who struggle to get to the library, libraries provide a home library service.

For more details about any of our services, contact your local library or email libraryenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk (opens new window).

Wiltshire Libraries are working with the Good Things Foundation to distribute free SIMs and mobile data to people in need. The National Databank scheme (opens new window) is supported by UK mobile networks including Vodafone, O2 and Three.

The free SIMs and mobile data will be available from Chippenham, Devizes, Salisbury, Trowbridge and Warminster libraries from Monday 30 January 2023.

To be able to access the National Databank you must be 18+ years-old and from a low-income household. One or more of the following must also be true:

• you have no or poor access to the internet at home
• you have no or poor access to the internet away from home
• you can't afford your existing monthly contract or top-up

If you meet the criteria, contact Chippenham, Devizes, Salisbury, Trowbridge or Warminster libraries to find out more and to book an appointment or complete the National Databank application form.

Download the Solus library app from the App Store (opens new window) or Google Play Store (opens new window) to quickly renew and request items on your phone or tablet. The Location ID is WILTS.

Amesbury Library (opens new window)

Bradford on Avon Library (opens new window)

Calne Library (opens new window)

Chippenham Library (opens new window)

Corsham Library (opens new window)

Devizes Library (opens new window)

Malmesbury Library (opens new window)

Marlborough Library (opens new window)

Melksham Library (opens new window)

Royal Wootton Bassett Library (opens new window)

Salisbury Library (opens new window)

Tidworth Library (opens new window)

Trowbridge Library (opens new window)

Warminster Library (opens new window)

Westbury Library (opens new window)

Wiltshire Mobile Libraries (opens new window)