Libraries are constantly evolving to best serve the needs of their communities. They are no longer quiet places of solitude, they are lively, creative spaces for people to gather. These days, a library card can get you much more than just books. “We have performers, author talks, movie showings, ukulele jams and magic acts,” shares Michelle Larson, Timberland Regional Library’s Public Relations Specialist. “The one thing that does not change about libraries is that everything we offer is free.”

In addition to their wide array of community events and books in print, a Timberland library card gives you access to many online entertainment resources.

Playaway

Timberland Regional Library Little Girl Headphones
Kids can take audio books anywhere thanks to the library’s free playaway. Photo courtesy: Timberland Regional Library

Playaway Devices are TRL’s newest electronic resource. These are preloaded audiobook players for children and teens, similar to an old school Walkman, only with books instead of music. “We purposely chose youth titles because many children do not have access to their own handheld devices or CD players to listen to audiobooks. Playaways are flexible, you can take them anywhere – around your house, on a walk, or on the bus.” explains Andrea Heisel, TRL Collection Services Manager. “We are always looking for sustainable, fiscally responsible ways to increase access for our patrons. ”

Each Playaway has 77 titles from A Wrinkle in Time to Winnie the Pooh and new best-sellers like The Hate U Give. You will need headphones or earbuds, unless you are one of the first 100 patrons to give them a try. The library has a limited number of promotional earbuds to give away. You can check out no more than two Playaway devices for three weeks at a time with no renewals. “The first batch of these devices are available at North Mason (Belfair), Winlock, Tumwater, Hoquiam, Elma, and can also be found in our catalog where you can request to have them sent to your local Timberland Library,” shares Michelle.

TumbleBookLibrary

TumbleBookLibrary brings the library to your home. It’s an online collection of eBooks for children that can be streamed to any computer, tablet or mobile phone with the click of a button. All you need is a library card and internet connection. “With over 250 animated, talking picture books, read-along chapter books, and nonfiction books, young readers will be encouraged to enjoy reading,” explains Michelle. The site also features games, puzzles, and books in Spanish and French. Find the TumbleBookLibrary app in the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Kanopy

Kanopy, can also be accessed from the comfort of your home or anywhere with Internet access. Kanopy is an online streaming movie service that allows you to stream up to five films a month for free with your Timberland library card. All you have to do is sign up for an account, verify your email, add your library card number and PIN and voila, you have access to over 30,000 films. Choose from cinema, foreign and indie films, children’s movies and documentaries. Enjoy this free library resource on your computer and across many devices, including Apple TV, iOS, Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast and Roku.

Audio and eBooks

Among their plethora of books in print, Timberland Regional Library has a wide selection of audiobooks and eBooks. You can check them out online through OverDrive. Alternatively, you can download the Libby App, the one-tap reading app for eBooks and audiobooks for your phone or tablet, no Kindle necessary (although you can also access their selection from your Kindle).  OverDrive and the Libby App give you access to thousands of eBook and audiobook titles and hundreds of videos.

RBdigital

Another online resource your Timberland library card gives you access to is RBdigital. Along with a selection of audiobooks, RBdigital has magazines. They offer full-color digital magazines for anytime, anywhere reading on desktops, mobile devices, and apps. Your library’s collection of popular digital magazines includes both new and backlist titles with no holds, no checkout periods and no limits.

Whether you prefer to stick with the traditional use of libraries, want to explore online entertainment resources or connect with your community through live entertainment, your Timberland Regional Library is here for you.  To stay up-to-date with your local libraries’ offerings, check out their events calendar. Additionally, if you have trouble accessing any of these resources, just swing by your local Timberland library and the friendly library staff will be more than happy to help you.

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