Free tablet lending service goes live at Stirling Council Libraries

It’s not just books you can borrow from Stirling Council Libraries – users can now stay connected online following the launch of a free tablet lending service

Pictured (l-r); Jonathan Kaney, Senior Library Assistant at Central Library, Lindsay McKrell, Team Leader, Libraries and Archives at Stirling Council, Councillor Gerry McGarvey, Matt Ferguson, Digital Services Librarian, Angela Short, Digital Inclusion Officer
L-R Jonathan Kaney, Senior Library Assistant, Lindsay McKrell, Team Leader Libraries & Archives, Cllr Gerry McGarvey, Matt Ferguson, Digital Services Librarian, Angela Short, Digital Inclusion Officer

Any member of Stirling Council Libraries can now borrow a tablet and MiFi with free, unlimited data for up to three weeks. The innovative service is available across all 15 libraries as well as the two mobile libraries.

MiFis, which are wireless routers, are provided in partnership with Connecting Scotland and allow users to stay online at home and on the move.

Bridging a gap for those who cannot get online

Community Wellbeing and Housing Convener, Cllr Gerry McGarvey said: “This wonderful initiative shows our commitment to ensuring our libraries are relevant to users in the 21st century and fit for the digital age.

“Having internet access can be taken for granted in today’s digital world but we must continue to ensure that everyone can get online given the opportunities it offers for learning and accessing key services.

“The free tablet lending service will help people boost their digital skills and bridge a gap for those who are unable to get online.

“Support will be available from our dedicated library staff for anyone interested in lending the devices.”

Residents who wish to become a member of Stirling Council Libraries and access the service should come along to their local branch with two forms of identification, one of which must have their current address, and speak to a member of staff.

Further information about the tablet lending service is available by emailing Angela Short, Digital Inclusion Officer, at shortan@stirling.gov.uk or calling 01786 237 547.