WHITEWATER REGION — Access to online research databases and articles in the Whitewater Region libraries is now available from home or anywhere with Internet access. Databases are searchable websites which have access to a variety of information sources. These sources include newspapers, magazines, journals, encyclopedias, reference manuals and more.
Some resources require the use of a Whitewater Region library card and other do not. Chief Executive Officer of the Whitewater Region Public Library Board, Debbi McLaughlin, said they are still issuing library cards during the pandemic. Cards are forwarded to the closest branch and registration is completed once they are able to reopen.
Mrs. McLaughlin says the online platforms, such as Overdrive, are easy to use. She reminds users the sites are busy with the amount of people staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic, but says, “there is always something to read!”
The library has been using websites like Overdrive for at least five years. They pay a subscription fee for the Overdrive service through their membership with the Souther Ontario Library Service. Users can then download books and audiobooks for free.
“When people started to buy e-readers like Kobo, this became a way to download books,” explained Mrs. McLaughlin. “You get the book for 14 days before it disappears, just like at the library.” Mrs. McLaughlin assured it’s the best way to “read the latest and greatest”.
Another way the library is interacting with patrons during the pandemic is with live readings on Facebook. Jim Butterworth will be reading children’s books every day next week at 4:30 p.m. This begins on Monday and the library is hoping to continue the live readings in the future.
Computers & Internet
“Whether you are looking for a job, doing research for a project, or perhaps just checking your e-mail, the library has the necessary resources,” says the write-up on the Township of Whitewater Region’s website. “Each Branch offers public access computers for everyone’s use and free wireless internet service for your laptops, tablets, phones, etc.”
Online Reference Sources
Users have the ability to browse and search the following websites to help find the information they’re looking for: the Virtual Reference Library (VRL) offers access to librarian-selected websites, self-guided research support and library information. It is a subject-based, reliable, Internet information source with special focus on Canadian and Ontario information; the Internet Public Library; World Trade Press, A to Z World Food; and World Trade Press, A to Z World Travel.
