Instant Digital Library Cards Now Available for Seattle Residents at The Seattle Public Library
release date: March 31, 2020
Seattle residents who do not have a Library card from The Seattle Public Library can now sign up for an instant digital Library card, which gives immediate access to e-books and e-audiobooks through the Library’s OverDrive digital collection.
Launched Thursday, March 26, the service is available at spl.org/overdrive. To be eligible, you must be 13 years or older, live in Seattle and have a mobile phone to verify your account.
“We are working hard to find new ways to support Seattle residents during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Circulation Services Manager Bo Kinney. “Whether you’re a parent looking for a just-right chapter book, a telecommuter brushing up on skills or a senior who wants a light read after a heavy day of news, we have resources for you.”
More than 600 people have already signed up for the instant digital cards since the service launched. Access to the Library’s OverDrive collection allows users to browse more than 200,000 e-titles, find “available now” e-books and e-audiobooks, and access curated collections such as Newbery Award and Honor books.
The instant digital card provides access to e-books and e-audiobooks, but the Library hopes to add other digital resources and databases to this service in the future.
Through the Library Link partnership, Seattle Public School students in grades 6-12 and teachers for grades 6-12 (and in K-8 schools) can access the Library’s collection of digital books as well as its online resources. Students and teachers can find out more at spl.org/librarylink.
If a Seattle resident already has an active account with The Seattle Public Library but is having trouble accessing their account at spl.org, they can ask for assistance by contacting the Library’s online help and reference service at Ask Us.
Find out more about The Seattle Public Library’s digital collections and resources at spl.org/stayinghome.
All physical locations of The Seattle Public Library are closed in accordance with public health guidelines through at least April 13, 2020. Find out more at spl.org/ChiefLibrarian.