BPL offers iVOX Books Picture Book App to Patrons

The Birmingham Public Library is now offering a new electronic resource, called iVOX, for our patrons.

 iVOX is basically an online version of the read-along VOX Books with a 3D component. There are limited number of titles available currently, but more are being added.

 iVOX is available from the BPL Databases page. 

 What is iVOX?

 iVOX™ is an interactive storybook app for children ages 2-10. iVOX allows users to read, watch, and interact with books in completely new ways. iVOX brings books to life, captivating children and parents by creating a truly educational and hands-on reading experience.

iVOX can be used with a browser or an app for iOS, Android, or Kindle Fire. No matter which way iVOX is accessed, it’s easy and intuitive. Users simply choose a book, check it out, and press play. 

Here are some details you need to know about iVOX: 

• Recommended for ages 2-10.

• Inside library access is automatic.

• Outside library requires library zip code, library and a library card.

• Available online via app or mobile device, Chromebook, or Kindle. 

• Books are "checked out" online for use. They can be checked back in when done.

• Must be online to checkout and browse, but once downloaded online access is not necessary. So a user can download to their device from a library and access it from home without an internet connection.

What you need: 

• A library account from your local library.

• The iVOX app from the Apple or Google Play Store. 

 • An Android or Apple mobile device or tablet. This includes Chromebooks and Kindle Fire devices(HD 7 & 8). 

What to do:

• Download the iVOX app.

 • Enter your zip code(example 35203), library (Birmingham Public Library), and library card number information to begin using iVOX outside of the library. In-library access should be automatic, but may sometimes require a library card number.

 • Choose your book and press play! 

About iVOX experiences: 

• Listen for the narration and the music. Adjust the audio volume on your device as necessary.

 • 3D characters and scenes will pop up that correspond to the page. You can move your device up or down and zoom in or out by pinching the screen to enhance your viewing experience.

• A sound effect will play when it’s time to turn the page. Simply tap the right arrow key to turn the page. 

 How do I use iVOX? 

 • You must be online to long in, browse the bookshelf and download books. Once books are downloaded, you do not need to be connected to the internet to enjoy the iVOX Book experience.

 • Download the iVOX app from the Apple or Google Play store. 

When prompted, enter your zip code and select your library. 

Upon selecting your library, the login screen will appear where you will be asked for your library card number and PIN. 

Once validated, you will be in the iVOX App’s main area where you can browse, search, and download iVOX Books.

. • From the homepage bookshelf, choose a book and select “Check Out Now.” Your book will begin downloading immediately. Once your book opens, a short tutorial will play showing you how to use iVOX. Tap the book cover and it will start playing automatically.

 A sound effect will let you know when it’s time to turn to the next page; you can do so by selecting the RIGHT ARROW key. To go back a page, press the LEFT ARROW key. You can PAUSE / PLAY the book at any time.

 • To enhance your viewing experience, move your device UP or DOWN to see the 3D scenes from different angles. You can also pinch and zoom your screen to alter your experience.

 • To view how much time is remaining on your book, go to the Home Screen (Bookshelf) and select the “My Books” button located on the top right side of your screen (Orange circle with a down arrow). 

 • From the “My Books” section, you can check the time remaining and return and remove a book from your device. Once you complete the book, you can read it again it by tapping the replay button just below the RIGHT arrow key. This will return you to the beginning of the book. 

Do I need to be connected to the internet to use iVOX?

You must be online to log in, browse the bookshelf and download books. Once books are downloaded, you do not need to be connected to connected to the internet to enjoy the iVOX Book experience. 

How do I return or delete a book from the app?

You can return or delete a book in your library at any time. From the Home Screen (Bookshelf), press the “My Books” button in the upper right corner (Orange circle with a down arrow). Select the book you want to return and remove from your device. 

For more information, click here: https://www.libraryideas.com/ivox

By Caleb West|Department Head, BPL Collection Management Department