What do you use your library card for? If someone asked you that question, your first thoughts would probably be visiting the library to borrow books, studying for an exam, meeting with a client, attending a story time with your toddler, or creating something amazing in the new makerspace.
Most people just think of the library in terms of its physical space. The library is an anchor institution, and a cornerstone of educational and civic life in Westfield. It has existed at various locations in town, uninterrupted, for well over 100 years.
But your library card gives you access to much more than just the building on East Broad Street. Your card is also a key to a remarkable collection of digital resources that you can access from your couch, your commute, or anywhere in between.
For free. With no late fees, or anything to return. And no subscriptions or credit cards.
Are you ready to learn more? Below is a guide to the most popular digital services available to Westfield residents, as of this writing.
Books, Audiobooks & Reading
Libby is our most popular digital lending platform, powered by OverDrive. If you read eBooks or magazines, or listen to audiobooks, this is where to start. Libby offers tens of thousands of titles, from bestsellers to classics, and children’s books, that you borrow just like a physical book, with automatic returns when your lending period ends. The app is beautifully designed, works on any smartphone, tablet, or Kindle, and syncs your reading across devices. To get started, download the Libby app and sign in with your library card number.
Blinkist takes a different approach to reading: it distills the key ideas from thousands of nonfiction books into focused 15-minute reads or listens called “Blinks.” If you’ve ever wanted to absorb the core insights of a business, science, or self-help book without committing to the full text, Blinkist is a remarkable tool. It’s especially useful for busy residents who want to stay intellectually curious without carving out hours of reading time. Access it through our website’s digital resources portal using your library card.
Hoopla is our most versatile digital platform; think of it as a one-stop shop for digital content. Unlike Libby, hoopla has no waitlists and no holds; everything is available immediately. The collection spans eBooks, audiobooks, comics and graphic novels, movies, TV shows, and music. If a title you want on Libby has a wait, check hoopla first because you may find it available right away. Access hoopla at hoopladigital.com or through the app using your library card.
Streaming Video & Music
Kanopy is our streaming video service, and it is genuinely exceptional. While it may not have the latest blockbusters, Kanopy’s catalog is deep with critically acclaimed independent films, foreign cinema, classic Hollywood, award-winning documentaries, and an outstanding collection of content for children through its Kanopy Kids portal. For film lovers, it rivals any paid streaming service in quality. Sign in at kanopy.com with your library card to start watching instantly on any browser, smart TV, or the Kanopy app.
Freegal is our music streaming and download service, with a catalog of millions of songs across virtually every genre, including a particularly strong selection of independent and classical recordings. What makes Freegal unique is that you can download a set number of songs each week to keep permanently: yours to play forever, even without an internet connection. Access it through our digital resources page with your library card.
Newspapers
PressReader gives Westfield residents unlimited access to thousands of full-issue newspapers from around the world, updated daily, and formatted exactly as they appear in print. Whether you follow USA Today, The Guardian, Boston Globe, or other major publications you’d otherwise pay for, PressReader likely has it. It’s an invaluable resource for staying informed without the cost of individual subscriptions. Access it through our website or the PressReader app with your library card number.
Lifelong Learning
LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) is a bit of a hidden gem. Itās one of the most valuable professional development resources we offer, and one of the most underutilized. It provides access to thousands of expert-led video courses covering technology, business, creative skills, data analysis, project management, and much more. LinkedIn Learning is used by 13,000 organizations and 78% of the Fortune 100 companies to upskill their workforces. Whether you’re preparing for a career change, learning a new software tool, or brushing up on leadership skills, LinkedIn Learning offers a structured, high-quality path. Access it free through our digital resources portal, or download the app.
Mango Languages is our language-learning platform, offering courses in over 70 languages, from Spanish and French to Mandarin, Arabic, Swahili, and beyond. Mango uses a conversational, culturally rich approach that moves you toward real-world use quickly. It’s an excellent resource for travelers, heritage speakers reconnecting with their family language, or anyone who simply wants to learn something new. Access it through our website, or download the app.
Creativebug is a video learning platform focused entirely on arts and crafts, from drawing and painting, to sewing, knitting, printmaking, paper arts, and dozens of other hands-on disciplines. With thousands of classes taught by working artists and designers, it’s ideal for hobbyists looking to deepen their skills or beginners picking up a new craft. Access it through our digital resources portal with your library card.
How to Get Started
All of these resources are free to any Westfield Memorial Library cardholder in good standing. Visit our website at westfieldlibrary.org and navigate to the Digital Access section, where you’ll find direct links to each platform. For most services, you’ll simply enter your library card number to authenticate.
If you don’t yet have a library card, you can register in person at 550 East Broad Street or online through our website. Cards are free to all Westfield residents.
If you have questions about any of these platforms, our staff is always happy to help. Stop by the reference desk, give us a call, or contact us through the website. We’re here to make sure every resident gets the most out of what your library card makes possible.
