Lewes Public Library increases virtual offerings

Delawareans may be staying home, but they can still enjoy everything the Lewes Public Library has to offer, from checking out books to attending programs, all thanks to the internet.

When considering virtual library resources, most people immediately think of eBooks and eAudiobooks. Some people may even think of the many free databases available from the library website, but most people wouldn’t think of attending programs virtually. However, that is exactly what the Lewes Public Library is now offering.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in an effort to stay connected with library users, Adult Program Coordinator Rebecca Lowe has begun offering a variety of programs, workshops and classes virtually. From financial literacy sessions to foreign language conversation groups to book clubs to discussion groups, the library has moved most of its scheduled programming online.

Library Director Lea Rosell said, “During this time of social distancing, it’s important for all of us to stay connected. Library staff worried about the impact of social isolation on the people we serve, especially our older library users. There is so much content online that people can read or watch, that we wanted to give them the opportunity to interact with one another.”

Working with the Delaware Division of Libraries, all public libraries in the state have moved to one calendar of virtual events, viewable at www.lib.de.us.

For security purposes, anyone interested in attending a virtual program offered by the Lewes library must register in order to receive information on how to attend.

Along with these real-time events, families with young children can visit the library’s YouTube channel for stories and activities led by Jennifer Noonan, LPL children’s librarian. Noonan also has curated reading and activity lists online to keep everyone in the family entertained and safe during this uncertain time. 

Of course, everyone can still access all the great eContent they have come to expect. OverDrive eBook and eAudiobook lending platform is still available to anyone who has a Delaware library card.

Funding from New Castle County and the Delaware Division of Libraries made possible a new digital lending service called hoopla. Anyone looking for a recommendation on what to read can check out the custom lists of eBooks and eAudiobooks available in OverDrive and hoopla, curated by Assistant Director Kristen Gramer. These are located on the Lewes Public Library’s website and accessible simply with a library card, available online through the Delaware Division of Libraries website, libraries.delaware.gov.

Though the physical library is closed until further notice, the Lewes Public Library and its staff are working hard to keep all users connected, informed and safe.

To see all the virtual programs the Lewes library is offering, go to www.lewes.lib.de.us.