City libraries launch new digital services for online card registration

City libraries have launched new digital services, allowing online library card registration. 

The city made the announcement that the new digital innovations include the ability to apply for your library card online. 

The City libraries’ entire physical catalogue is  now also online, in addition to thousands of e-books and audiobooks from OverDrive and Project Gutenberg. 

Once registered, patrons can pop into their local library to collect their cards to unlock physical and digital collections.

Anthea Hartzenberg, Executive Support Officer to the mayco member for Community Services and Health, City of Cape Town explained the process:  “In addition, e-books collections are now integrated, including OverDrive and Project Gutenberg, offering avid readers a myriad of books to download and enjoy.” 

“Whether you're searching for a physical copy or an e-book, the enhanced search feature makes it easy to find and access titles across the entire library catalogue.”

Hartzenberg said the digital upgrade also includes seamless integration of popular e-book platforms, such as OverDrive and Project Gutenberg, giving readers access to thousands of titles - from contemporary bestsellers to timeless classics.

“OverDrive offers a wide range of digital books, while Project Gutenberg is the world’s oldest digital library of free eBooks,” she added.

Mayoral Committee Member for Health, Councillor Francine Higham said the availability allows for people not to be limited.

“The innovations make our library resources more accessible than ever, opening up a whole new world of reading to discover. Our new digital services means they can search our extended catalogues for their next read or favourite authors. 

“Access to eBooks allows you to carry a library on a single device; you don’t have to worry about returning the book within a specified time and you can read at your leisure. EBooks also offer instant access to new titles and you’re not limited to the number of books you can check out.”

To help readers stay up to date, the platform also features customisable news feeds showcasing the latest additions to the library’s shelves. 

They added that users can browse items added in the past three months or explore trending titles from the New York Times Bestsellers list. While some bestsellers may not yet be available in the collection, the list offers a great way to discover what’s popular.

Higham explained the digital transformation marks a significant step forward in making reading more accessible, convenient, and enjoyable for all.

 “Your next great read is now available day or night. Students, researchers and avid readers alike will benefit from these regularly updated digital resources. I encourage our residents to register for membership online and explore our expanded collection,’ added Higham.

• Access the online catalogue at opac.capetown.gov.za whether you're a book lover, a curious learner, or just looking for your next great read.

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