If you are looking for a good book to read then Essex Libraries can provide you with thousands to choose from. Here you can find information on:
The online library catalogue provides details of all the books we have available. Online reservations are free; and if the book you want is not available through any Essex library, you can complete an interlending form and we’ll try to get hold of it for you. There is a charge for this service.
Reading guides
Many libraries have reading guides you can use such as 'Who Else Writes Like', which you can use to find alternatives to your favourite authors. Through the computers in the library you can also access Sequels Online (see bottom of
reference library online), which will help you make sure you read your favourite series in the right order.
Quick Reads and Fresh Start
For those who enjoy reading but are short on time many libraries have Quick Reads collections. From thrillers to humour to real life, these stories are ideal for adults who've returned to reading, those who find reading tough and for anyone who wants a short, fast read.
For adults keen to improve their literacy skills some libraries hold collections of Fresh Start materials, which are chosen with the help of adult literacy tutors to support adult learners.
If your local library does not have a Fresh Start or Quick Reads collection you can find booklists on the libraries online catalogue by searching for Fresh Start or Quick Reads.
Sharing your love of reading with others
The online library catalogue is a great place to share your love of reading with others and get some great reading ideas. To start, you need to create your own account (a free service) by clicking on the 'my discoveries' tab on the top right of the
library catalogue home page. From your account you will be able to write reviews, add tags, ratings and create your own lists of favourites.
To share your thoughts on your latest read and post a review on the
library catalogue, first locate the title you are interested in. At the bottom of the record, click on 'save or tag'. This will give you the following options:
- add this title to one of your existing lists, or create a new list
- add tags
- give this title a star rating
- write a review
Once completed, your review / star rating will be made public.