BCPL

News release

Public libraries are a tremendous resource for their local communities. Since the COVID-19 shutdown began, libraries are coming up with innovative ways to serve their patrons. This week the Boyle County Public Library introduced digital library cards, giving people who don’t currently have library cards access to numerous online resources.

“Our staff are constantly searching for ways to improve the library experience and expand access for all of our patrons,” says Public Services Librarian Caleb Conover. “Earlier this year, we started to consider the possibility of incorporating digital registration to streamline the process of getting a library card. With the COVID-19 closures, it made perfect sense to fast track this project and get it into action.” 

People without a library card can now register online for a temporary barcode that can be used to sign in to the vast majority of the library’s digital resources and collections, such as Kentucky Libraries Unbound (the library’s online catalog collection) and Hoopla (a digital streaming service featuring eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and music). “The process is working,” says Conover, “and we’ve already seen a significant number of new registrations – people signing up for library access that they didn’t have previously.” 

Conover goes on to say that there are a two things he would like for people to remember when they sign up: 

1. Record the barcode that is displayed on the registration confirmation screen. “When registering for the digital library card, a barcode ID will be displayed,” says Conover. “It should look like ‘PACREG#####.’ This is the number you will be using to sign in to those digital collections.” 

2. Upgrade to a full-access library card when the library reopens. Conover recommends that digital cardholding patrons visit the library with their photo ID and upgrade to full access. “You’ll get a physical library card and access to check out all of the books, audiobooks, movies, and more that are inside the building (in addition to all of that digital content you’ve already been enjoying),” says Conover.


Many librarians work directly with the public in some capacity. The required shutdown has temporarily changed the way that looks, but library staff are still working to reach out and improve services for patrons during this time.  “Being stuck at home, it’s always nice to see the work you’re doing for the community come to fruition,” says Conover. “Thanks to our IT department for making this a reality, and thank you to all who are using or helping us promote this system.” 

People in need of a digital library card can go directly to boylepublib.org/register to sign up. Additional information about the digital cards can be found on the library’s website, BoylePubLib.org, under the “How Do I?” section. 

Digital library cards are intended for people who do not currently have library cards. Patrons who already have a physical library card but have never used the online catalog can easily access it through the eMedia page, boylepublib.org/emedia. Additional resources are also available on the Online Resources page.

 Anyone needing assistance registering for a digital library card or needing help accessing the online resources may contact the library Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. via email at library@boylepublib.org, or via Facebook Messenger at facebook.com/boylepublib. Patrons can also reach specific departments via the library’s website using the dropdown menu available on boylepublib.org/contact-us.

The Boyle County Public Library serves the city of Danville and the surrounding communities, and is actively committed to enriching the lives of its patrons. The library is located at 307 West Broadway in Danville.