Books delivered direct to your door

Avid readers will be able to turn the pages of their favourite books once again following the launch of a new Newcastle Libraries service, Library 2U, which will see books, movies and music delivered to the homes of members.

The initiative ensures Newcastle Libraries members can continue to connect with library services during the current stay at home orders, following the temporary closure of all branches when lockdown began in early-August.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said that Novocastrians love connecting with their libraries and the service will keep the community informed and entertained during a trying time.

"With more than 96,000 members, and loans reaching 1.3 million in the last year, it is clear that our community values the services and connection that the city's libraries offer," Cr Nelmes said.
"Everyone loves the feeling of being transported into the world of their favourite book or movie and although we can't yet welcome people back inside branches, we're pleased to be able to launch Library 2U.

"All it takes is a quick phone call or completing an online form and library staff will consider your preferences and hand-pick a selection of reading, watching or listening options, which will arrive at your door via contactless delivery the following business day."

Library 2U is available now to all Newcastle Libraries members residing in the Newcastle Local Government Area. Up to five items will be selected for members based on their preferences and members can keep loans until return chutes reopen.

A click and collect service may also soon be available following recent changes to the Public Health Order allowing libraries to facilitate collections. The Newcastle Libraries click and collect service is expected to commence in early October.

Membership to Newcastle Libraries and the Library 2U service is free and can be arranged by phoning 4974 5300 or visiting newcastle.nsw.gov.au/library

While library branches are closed members can access the eLibrary for a range of eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, movies, magazines and newspapers, by visiting newcastle.nsw.gov.au/library or downloading the Newcastle Libraries app.

Newcastle Libraries membership and loan statistics:

• Total membership is 96,603
• In the last year Newcastle Libraries have gained almost 9,000 new members.
• There were over 11,000 library app downloads in the last year
• In the last financial year the library has celebrated 1.3 million loans in total across its physical and eLibrary selection.
• Fiction loans account for 55% of total loans
• eLibrary loans account for just under 40% of all loans
• Within the eLibrary, 40% are eBooks and eAudiobooks, 20% of loans are music, movies and TV, 20% are magazines and newspapers and remainder are online learning and research databases.