Find out how to access free digital versions of national and local newspapers and magazines.
BorrowBox Newspapers
Our digital newspapers moved from the Press Reader (Libby) service to BorrowBox on Friday 19 May 2023.
To access digital newspapers on BorrowBox either:
- install the BorrowBox app on to your device or
- go to LibrariesWest: BorrowBox to use the website
To use the website you need to log on with your library membership number and PIN. If you need a PIN reminder then go LibrariesWest, click on ‘Log in' and ‘Forgot my PIN'.
The first time you use BorrowBox you'll need to be connected to the internet as your device will need to sync to let the digital newspapers tab appear.
All titles can be accessed simultaneously by an unlimited number of library members, and previous editions will also be available.
More details can be found here E-Newspapers (librarieswest.org.uk) .
Why are digital newspapers moving to BorrowBox
Our contract with the current provider has come to an end and we have entered into a new contract with BorrowBox.
Although the new collection is smaller it is more targeted and includes more local and regional titles, including Exeter Express and Echo, Frome Standard, Plymouth Herald, Somerset Guardian, Wells Journal and Western Gazette.
If you have any queries about the new service email us at Bristol.library.service@bristol.gov.uk
Libby Magazines
Libby service: technical issues, 15 March 2024
We are sorry, we have some technical issues and can’t offer the Libby service (digital magazines, digital comics and graphic novels) at the moment.
We are working hard to get a service back to you.
This resource gives access to around 3,000 online magazines suitable for a range of age groups. It also includes access to around three years' back copies.
You can download them to your portable device, or stream them on a computer.
If you're asked for payment, you're no longer browsing the free library subscription.
Access eMagazines
You must be a member of the library as you'll need your library card number and PIN.
Using a smart device
- log on to LibbyApp website
- download the free Libby app, available from all app stores
Using a Windows or Mac computer or a Chromebook
Log on to the LibbyApp website.
Using a Kindle Fire
Visit the Libby website for help and to download the Libby app.
Which? Magazine
Get free access to Which?, where you can read full articles and monthly magazines.
With expert testing, reviews and advice, Which? reviews products and services so that you make the best purchase decisions for your needs.
How to access Which?
The online service is available at all Bristol Libraries. Ask a member of staff for details on how to use this service.
Central Library hold the current printed copy of Which Magazine as well as an incomplete back run going back to 1957.
19th Century British Library Newspapers
This resource has full runs, where possible, of 48 national and regional nineteenth century newspapers.
To log in from home:
- enter your Bristol library card number into the library membership
no. box - click Proceed
The old ANP library card series is no longer in use for this resource, see staff for a replacement card.
Use 19th Century British Library Newspapers.
British Newspaper Archive (BNA)
This resource gives access to British Library newspapers, from the early 17th century to the late 20th century.
Many of the titles are small regional newspapers.
You'll need to:
- register with the BNA using a library computer
- create a username and password on your first visit
- log in every time you want to use BNA
Home access is limited. You can only search newspapers and see a list of results. You can't view or print any articles.
Use British Newspaper Archive.
John Johnson Collection: printed ephemera
This resource gives access to the John Johnson Collection, one of the most important collections of printed ephemera in the world.
It includes collectible booklets, leaflets and pamphlets covering aspects of everyday life in Britain in the eighteenth, nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Use the John Johnson Collection.
Newsbank: national and local newspapers with archived copies
Explore and stay informed on events, people and issues related to business, government, economy, sports, culture, and more.
Features a variety of local, regional, and national credible news sources from across the UK and Ireland, including The Post. Also available remotely 24/7 on any device.
To log in from home:
- enter your library card number in the library membership number box
- click Proceed
The old ANP library card series is no longer in use for this resource, see staff for a replacement card.
Use Newsbank
Gale Primary Sources
This resource searches across the following:
- 19th Century British Library Newspapers
- The Times Digital Archive
- The Sunday Times Digital Archive
To log in from home:
- enter your Bristol library card number into the library membership no. box
- click Proceed
Sunday Times Digital Archive: 1822 to 2006
This is a fully indexed and searchable copy of the Sunday Times newspaper from 1822 to 2006. Content from 1985 onwards is also available on Newsbank.
Our license only allows two people to use this at the same time. If you can't log on straight away, try again later.
To log in from home:
- enter your Bristol library card number into the library membership
no. box - click Proceed
The old ANP library card series is no longer in use for this resource, see staff for a replacement card.
Use Sunday Times Digital Archive.
Times Digital Archive: 1785 to 2014
This is a fully indexed and searchable copy of the Times newspaper from 1785 to 2013.
Our license only allows two people to use this at the same time. If you can't log on straight away, try again later.
To log in from home:
- enter your Bristol library card number into the library membership
no. box - click Proceed
The old ANP library card series is no longer in use for this resource, see staff for a replacement card.