Library technology upgraded by City of Sydney

City of Sydney is planning upgrades to its nine libraries over the coming months.

Radiofrequency identification (RFID) technology will give library visitors faster, more accurate and user-friendly transactions, while self-service kiosks will allow people to check their loans in and out more quickly.

“New technologies are changing the way we read and the role of libraries, so we’re working hard to make sure these fantastic community facilities remain functional and centrally relevant to our communities,” said Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

Library printing, copying and scanning facilities and computers will be upgraded, giving visitors access to the latest Microsoft Office applications, internet browsers and Skype for video and voice calls.

In addition, new self-service kiosks will offer library visitors the option of managing their own loan accounts, make the borrowing process smoother, and free up the time of librarians to assist with other visitor enquiries. With all products fitted with RFID tags, library visitors will be able to check out and return multiple items at once.

The City is also waiving fines on overdue items until 1 July 2017 as part of a 12-month trial to encourage more visitors to the libraries and make it easier to return books.

Branches will close temporarily as upgrades are staged at different times from late November, with works due to be completed by the end of March 2017.

Surry Hills, Waterloo and Glebe will be the first branches to temporarily close for the upgrade from 21 November. Library visitors can continue to use other libraries, make returns at the after-hours chute and renew and reserve loans online.

The City’s libraries will continue to offer workshops, school holiday programs, events, talks and multicultural programs throughout the upgrade.

Image courtesy of City of Sydney.