Digital Services at Local Libraries Expanded
New online platform for access to eBooks and audiobooks
Over 7 million books and 1.2million eBooks and audiobooks can be accessed
February 21, 2025
Hounslow Council is expanding access to digital reading material available through its library services.
It says an upgrade to its online platform has made it easier to browse and borrow from its collection of 1.2 million eBook and audiobook and to reserve books from its catalogue of seven million titles for collection at a library.
Hounslow libraries, including Chiswick, Brentford, Osterley and Isleworth already offer their members free, digital newspapers and magazines from the UK and around the world. They help learner drivers with Theory Test Pro, a free, realistic online simulation of the UK's driving theory test. Members can also search for long lost relatives using a free service installed on computers within libraries along with access to job searching and Universal Credit.
The government has recently announced that more funding has been made available to libraries which expand the range of services they offer to become community hubs including hosting more events. The council says it intends to make this transformation for all 11 libraries in the borough while retaining access to a full library service.
Hounslow’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Public Spaces, Councillor Salman Shaheen, said,“We know books play such a pivotal role in our residents’ live we want to make sure our residents utilise our vast online collection and make the most out of our library services. If you already have a library card there is so much on offer for our residents.
“Such changes reflect our broader changes to Council services: making it easier and quicker for residents to access the services they need.”
To access the online catalogue click here.
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