Libraries see rising digital checkouts during pandemic
Download Destination, which offers e-books and audiobooks to 50 libraries in southeast Michigan, surpassed one million checkouts of digital materials in 2020.
“With the temporary closure of libraries that started in mid-March, demand for OverDrive digital materials has grown at an unprecedented rate,” said Jim Flury, technical services manager of the state’s Library Network.
For several years, this digital collection has provided readers with the ability to check out online reading materials all day, every day through OverDrive and the award-winning Libby reading app. Oakland County member libraries include Commerce Township Community Library, Northville District Library, Novi Public Library and Waterford Township Public Library.
Julie Farkas, Novi Public Library director, said, “We are excited to be offering Download Destination to our Novi community. Many residents have benefited from the opportunity to access digital materials during the pandemic.
“Our usage has definitely increased, and we have welcomed new adopters of the technology as well. This is just one of the many services that public libraries are proud to be offering in order to stay connected with our residents.”
To take advantage of Download Destination’s OverDrive-powered digital collection, readers just need a valid library card from a member library. It’s accessible on all major devices, including Apple, Android, Chromebook and Kindle. Visit tln.overdrive.com or download the Libby app to start borrowing e-books and audiobooks. For more information about The Library Network, visit tln.lib. mi.us.