Cornwall Libraries has introduced an new free service for library members, who who can now download up to five ebooks to a computer, tablet or smartphone.

From this month Cornwall library members have access to more than 1500 ebooks which, once downloaded, customers can read at any time, even when not connected to the internet.

To launch the scheme, Bolinda Digital who are working with Cornwall Libraries, are offering library members the opportunity to win an Apple ipad mini. To be in with a chance of winning, library members need to register and download a title from Bolinda’s BorrowBox before 31 August 2014 to be entered into the free draw.

Linda Moffatt, from Cornwall Libraries, said: “We are pleased to be working with Bolinda Digital on this innovative new service for Cornwall. The service is simple to use. If you are already a library member, all you need to do is create a free BorrowBox account via the link on the Cornwall Library website using your library card. Then simply login and search, browse and discover the great collection which is available 24/7. If using a smartphone or tablet, the BorrowBox App is available free for both Apple and Android devices.

"Customers can read at leisure and the book will automatically delete at the end of the loan period, so no worrying about overdue charges. We will be adding new titles regularly to expand the collection.

“A new range of eaudio books are also available on BorrowBox which complement our existing eaudio book collection. Customers can borrow five eBooks every two weeks and five e-audiobooks every three weeks. A really exciting option on BorrowBox is that you can read and listen to excerpts before you borrow them and also see other available titles by that author and link to author websites. Reserving an ebook which is already on loan is free and you will receive an email when your book is ready to download. Reading couldn’t be easier wherever you are.”

Cornwall Council cabinet member for partnerships Adam Paynter said: “We know that many people now read books and magazines on their tablet or smartphone so this exciting new service, along with the recently launched free magazine downloads will meet their needs. There is free computer access in all Cornwall Council libraries and one stop shops and some libraries also have free WIFI making it possible for customers to pop into the library, choose a print book, check emails and download an ebook, all free of charge.”

Customers can also download ebooks from home and on the move, as long as they have a Cornwall Library membership card and an internet connection.

Dawn Schofield, online team leader said: “There are many other free online resources available via the Cornwall Council website including access to reference sources, free language courses and family history. And of course, access to books, audio books, dvds and information in our libraries. Library membership is free and this new service will hopefully encourage more people to join the library and discover our other online resources.”

www.cornwall.gov.uk/library