Library members can now read some newly published local history via the Libraries’ eBook service.
As part of Local and Community History month, Solihull Libraries worked with the Solihull Local History Circle to make the group’s unpublished research on some of Solihull’s notable but unlisted buildings available.
Published as an eBook, Notable Buildings of Solihull explores nineteen of the borough’s distinctive and historically significant buildings which the group consider worthy of listing. This is the first time a local group has published their research through the eBook service.
Library members can access the eBook for free from the Local History ‘shelf’ on Borrowbox (non-members can sign-up online and gain immediate access). eBooks are issued for three weeks after which they automatically expire (unless renewed), so no fines are issued. Those who cannot access the eBook from home can do so using the free computers and WiFi at any Solihull library. Library staff will be on hand to help if needed.
Councillor Wazma Qais, Cabinet Member for Communities & Leisure, said:
“‘Notable Buildings of Solihull’ provides a fascinating insight into the borough’s rich history and serves as a reminder that history is all around us! The work is testament to the interesting research being carried out by local people to keep Solihull’s past alive.
“Producing research or writing as an eBook has a quicker turnaround, is more accessible, avoids publishing costs and allows work which may not otherwise make it to print to be published. We encourage more library members to make use of our eBook resources and more local people to publish their work in this way.”
If any local historians/groups have local history research that they would like to make available to library members as an eBook, please contact Tracey Williams, Library Specialist (Heritage & Local Studies), (heritage@solihull.gov.uk / 0121 704 6976).