What's in store for 2008?

Well, it's the start of a new year and we thought it might be a good time to tell you about some of the things we are planning. Read on to find out where your library service is heading in 2008.

New Library for Cronulla
The current building that houses Cronulla Library is old and no longer adequate. Construction is underway on a new Cronulla Library building as part of the Cronulla Community Project at Croydon St, a major project to revitalise Cronulla's CBD. We anticipate that construction will be complete very late in 2008 or early 2009, at which time Cronulla Library will move from its current location in Surf Rd.

Introduction of RFID
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that will provide the Library with a more efficient way of tracking Library materials, making check-outs, check-ins and inventory much easier and faster. It is a very large project as each item (book, DVD, CD, etc) needs to have a small radio tag inserted, replacing the current barcode system, along with installation of the hardware required to read the tags.

New Computer Training Initiatives
We can't say too much at this stage but we're looking at the whether we can improve the way we currently provide training in computers and related technology. We're still in the planning stage in this area but we hope to trial some new training initiatives this year. More information will be available as we get a clearer picture of what form our technology training will take. Keep your eye on this blog.

Overdrive - Downloadable Books and Music
The Library Service was recently successful in obtaining grant funding from the Library Council of NSW to add downloadable media to our collection using Overdrive. Overdrive is a web-based digital media platform that enables library patrons to download popular digital audio books, eBooks, music, and video from the library web site. Once we resolve some technical issues involved in integrating Overdrive in to our systems we will add a selection of digital media to our collection. You will then be able to download those titles and enjoy them on your computer, MP3 player or hand-held device where ever you like for a set loan period.

More Guests in the Library
We hope to have some special guests in the Library this year. We've already confirmed that Markus Zusak is returning, after his successful author talk last year, to give a writing workshop as part of our Youth Week celebrations.

Plus all the Regular Events
Of course all our usual events will be making a return this year including the Annual Book Sale in May, Book Week in August and our regular School Holiday Activities.

And finally, perhaps a few surprises...

Sutherland Shire Libraries wish all our customers a happy and prosperous 2008 and we look forward to helping you in any way we can throughout the year.