Angus libraries have seen a 476% rise in digital users as residents turn to books to keep them company during lockdown.
The closure of Angus Alive facilities across the district had led to the growth in the download of libraries’ RBdigital app.
Culture chiefs have also reported a 319% increase in e-resource downloads of audio, books, magazines and comics.
E-books have shown the biggest rise, with a 182% jump.
The figures have been calculated by comparing activity the month before the lockdown began up until April 16.
Angus Alive adult and community libraries lead, Christine Sharp said: “The number of people registering to use digital library services has soared.
“We have been encouraging people to sign up online with their borrower card to get access to all our e-resources during the lockdown and the team are working hard behind the scenes to ensure that people still have access to digital books and other library material.
“Libraries provide a vital service for residents and act as community hubs in normal times. Their online digital contribution has now become equally important as people turn to them as a way to help pass the time at home.
“We are absolutely delighted by the uptake.”
Among the catalogue of almost 2,000 e-books and 2,700 audio titles, Scots authors Val McDermid, Ian Rankin and Stuart MacBride are popular choices.
Harry Potter remains a firm favourite with young readers.
The bumper figures have been released as Angus Alive launches its All 4 Fun lockdown reading challenge which runs until May 29.
Those taking part will be asked to read at least one item each week from one of the four different e-resources in a scheme which will encourage people to share their experiences across social media.
The challenge is open to children and adults at all reading abilities.
