How to get books, audiotapes and movies through your digital library in South Florida
You don’t have to actually visit a Miami-Dade or Broward County library to pick up your next summer read.
Both library systems have thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, movies and more available online, a convenient feature for those trying to socially distance from others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There’s been an uptick of people using the digital library, which is continuously updated with new material throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, said Miami-Dade Public Library System spokeswoman Leila Khalil.
You can access Miami-Dade County’s digital library at https://www.mdpls.org/digital-library/digital-library.asp or by downloading the free MDPLS App available for Apple and Android devices. If you don’t have a library card already, you can also apply for a free digital card at ecard.dpls.org
For Broward County, you can access its online resources at https://www.broward.org/Library/Research/Pages/default.aspx or by downloading the Broward County Library app available for Apple and Android devices. If you don’t have a library card already, you can also apply for a free digital card at https://broward.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/default/search/registration/$N/SYMWS/true?
If you’re old school and prefer browsing through the shelves for your next read, here are a few safety measures you should know about:
▪ Face coverings (a fabric that covers your mouth and nose) is required at all times, both inside and outside, in Miami-Dade County. And yes, this includes inside the library. If you don’t have a mask, don’t worry, all 50 branches are giving away free masks until supplies run out.
▪ While the Broward libraries are still only offering walk-up and curbside pickup, the county’s mask mandate requires you to wear a mask outside if you can’t stay at least 6 feet away from others. Translation: You will need to wear a mask when you go to pick up or return an item.
▪ You can still use the computers, print/copy and check-in/check-out library materials inside Miami-Dade County libraries. Other programs, events and gatherings you would normally find at the library are suspended until further notice.
Hours may also be different because of the COVID-19 pandemic so check the @MDPLS Twitter or your local branch’s page at https://www1.mdpls.org/webservices/locator/open before you visit.
▪ While not a safety feature, it’s worth mentioning that Broward County libraries have temporarily suspended late fines during the library’s closure, according to its website. Miami-Dade County libraries are already a fine‑free library so there is no charge for overdue materials.
To learn more about the new safety features, visit Miami-Dade County Libraries System at https://www.mdpls.org/ and Broward County Library at https://www.broward.org/Library/Pages/Default.aspx
This story was originally published July 25, 2020 at 6:00 AM.
