Introducing iVox

 Submitted by Jeff Fisher

iVox is the digital version of Vox books, the easy books with embedded read-a-long speakers that have proven popular with our patrons.  iVox is now available for FCPL patrons to use and enjoy.

iVox provides for a very unique storytime experience for young readers, guardians, caregivers, and patrons of any age.  An iVox title is a easy level title that is read to the patron, as well as visually displayed using a combination of still and moving animation.  Another exciting feature of iVox allows the patron to tilt the device they are using for iVox to change the perspective of the viewing experience. 

iVox operates through the iVox app that is available through the Apple or Google Play stores (linked on the Kids eBooks and eAudiobooks page of the FCPL website, as well as on the Kids Learn and Explore page).  Clicking on the iVox graphic on those pages will take patrons to a page with a directions graphic.  A patron will only need their library card number, the iVox app, and an Android or Apple mobile device or tablet.  iVox is supported by most devices released since 2015.  

Once the iVox app has been downloaded to a device, a patron will enter their ZIP code or City and State to retrieve an option for Forsyth County Public Library.  Selecting FCPL will then prompt the patron to enter their library card number and PIN.  Once a patron is logged into the app, a selection of 14 books will be available.  

The books available in iVox are all simultaneous use with no wait times.  When a patron selects a book from the bookshelf, a window with information about the book will open, prompting the patron to check out the book.  This requires a download of the book.  (When a patron is finished with the book, they can select the 'My Books' button in the upper right corner of the iVox app to return the book and remove it from their device.)  Patrons are allowed five checkouts at any one time, but can return a book to checkout more iVox titles.  Again, all titles are simultaneous use with no wait times.

There are plans to expand the holdings within iVox.  iVox is a relatively new application and new titles will be released each month during FY2022, beginning this July.  Holdings in iVox will expand by 4 to 5 titles per month.  

Directions for using iVox with an FAQ are available on Sharepoint at Materials - All Things Materials - Electronic - iVox.