Libraries

Libraries are places where I generally don’t go to but there isn’t really a specific reason as to why not. I think libraries are a great opportunity to let people read without paying the prices for individual books.

Wills Memorial Library

I remember being in primary school and taking a class trip to the local library. I was always to excited to choose a book and look at all the options. Even if someone in my class didn’t like to read they generally liked to go through the books and choose one. Whether that be a comic style book or a novel style book. I think at that age libraries are great as not only do the kids get out of class they also choose a book that they want to read and can start to see a style that suits them.

I think libraries should be used more often and I am someone who should use one more as well. I admit I should use them more! Not only is there a variety of books there is also staff there to help you. If you’re looking for a specific book and you can help it or you just want some advice on books there is someone there to help you and answer your questions. If you’re not sure how the library organised then just ask and the staff can explain everything you need to know.

However, they are not always up to date with new releases so if you’re looking for a newly published book then this might not be your best option. It also depends the size of the library whether they have as many books on offer. There is also the issue of the book your wanting already having been taken out by someone else.

I would say that overall libraries are a great service and should be used more to allow more people to enjoy reading. It provides books alongside a quiet place to enjoy them. So I hope that more people use them and I will be!

Many thanks, Caitlin x

(PS please comment your opinion on libraries or any alternatives)

Bookish Apps

The majority of people have a smart phone or tablet that has the capacity to download apps and there are many book related and reading apps that would be perfect for the avid reader. They can come in many forms for example, an e-reader or an app that keeps track of the books you read. Here are a few that you may be interested in;

READING APPS:

When it comes to reading apps they are essentially e-readers on your phone/tablet. This is ideal for those who like to read throughout the day and like to keep all thier books on one device without having to buy a seperate e-reader. This can be cheaper as you can get published books at a better price without having to bu a seperate device. There are also loads of apps that share stories and books from individuals that are not published. Examples of reading apps are as follows;

  • Apple/Google Play books
  • Kindle
  • Aldiko
  • Wattpad
  • WordPress
  • FBReader

And much more!

AUDIOBOOK APPS

Audiobooks are a hugely popular way to read on the go. Whether your on your way to school/work or travelling. You can listen to a book and experience it through sound rather than physically having to have that book with you and reading it. You can listen to audiobooks whils you are doing something else such as painting, gardening or anything really! Some example of audio book apps are as follows;

  • Audible
  • Google Play books
  • LibriVox
  • Kobo
  • Kindle
  • Audiobooks.com

OTHER:

There are a huge variety of book apps that can be anywhere from shops, to review sites to blogs. a few examples of some I like are as follows;

  • GoodReads
  • Waterstones (Bookshop)
  • Litsy (Share and discover new books, create an online library to keep track of what you read.)
  • Snaptell
  • Scribd (like Netflix for books)
  • InstantPoetry

These are just a few of the many different apps you can get on your app store so take the time to explore and see what fits best for what you want/need.

Many thanks, Caitlin x

(PS please comment your favourite book apps or if you have anything different to the ones above)