The BorrowBox app – this is available for Apple devices (OS 9.3 or later), Android devices (4.2 or later), and Windows 10. The app is also available for the Amazon Kindle Fire. There is also a website version of Borrowbox at https://solihull.borrowbox.com/ .
eBooks and eAudiobooks - FAQ
What app do I need to use?
What about eMagazines and eNewspapers?
eMagazines are available from OverDrive, access these via the Libby app or website.
Use Pressreader and Newsbank for eNewspapers.
How do I find out what is available now, and not on loan?
In the Borrowbox app, choose eBooks or eAudiobooks from the menu at the bottom of the screen and then at the top choose All Releases. A box will appear labelled Available, tick that and the app will only show titles not on loan.
On the website version of Borrowbox, choose eBooks or eAudiobooks at the top, and there will be a heading All Titles/Available at the top of the list - click Available for titles not on loan.
What library account do I need?
If you are already a library member, then you can use this number and your PIN to log into Borrowbox straightaway.
If you are not a member you can join online or join in a library free of charge.
What if I don’t have my PIN?
If your email address is in your library record, you can reset your PIN anytime via the library catalogue. If this doesn’t work or your email address isn’t on your library record, email 247library@solihull.gov.uk and we can add your email address to your record.
What if my library card does not work?
Your membership may have expired, this happens after 2 years.
Contact your local library or email us on 247library@solihull.gov.uk with your name and address as confirmation and we will renew your card. If you have moved address but not told us, please include both your previous address (i.e. the one on your library record) and your new address (along with any other changed details, e.g. telephone number, name etc) and we’ll update your record.
If your card has not expired, we will contact you to discuss what might be wrong, e.g. overdue loans causing your card to be blocked.
Can I still use the online membership number?
Yes, these last for 2 years from joining and can be renewed.
Will I have to log in each time?
Most of the time, tablets and other devices will store the login details if you choose to, so no. However, if you do change your PIN, you may find the device is storing the old one - if this happens you may need to uninstall and reinstall the Borrowbox app.
How many titles can I borrow?
5 eAudiobooks and 5 eBooks.
Emagazines and eNewspapers are unlimited.
Can I use BorrowBox with other devices?
If you have an Adobe-compatible ereader (like a Kobo), you can download Borrowbox books on a computer, then use Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) to transfer them to your device. Fuller instructions are available.
Can I set up reading wish lists?
Yes - its easy to do this. Just press down on the cover in Borrowbox for a few seconds and a menu will come up saying Add to Reading List.
Can I use different library cards, for other family members or other councils on the Borrowbox app?
You can have multiple accounts with BorrowBox, but you’ll need to sign in and out to switch between them. To do this, go to Account Settings and Reset App. Each account would retain loans and any holds, but downloads would be removed..