International news now one click away for Hamilton library users

27 AUGUST 2008

For Immediate Release

Hamilton library users can now access more than 650 international newspapers from 76 countries hot off the press.

Hamilton City Libraries has signed up for a one-month trial of PressDisplay, which is billed as ‘the world’s largest online newspaper kiosk’ and enables users to access complete copies of a wide range of national and international newspapers online. Available at any of Hamilton’s six libraries, PressDisplay allows newspapers to be viewed on the same day they are printed, meaning readers no longer have to wait several days for hard copies of international newspapers to arrive at the library.

The newspapers are available in 37 languages, with pages viewable in the full printed layout or as text-only versions. Users can translate selected stories into 13 different languages or have selected stories read to them by turning on the integrated radio option. They can also print pages or individual stories, and email stories to friends.

Libraries Director Faye Clark believes PressDisplay is a fabulous addition to the library offer.

“The timeliness of PressDisplay is its biggest asset as you can access overseas papers the day they are printed. The service will be of huge benefit to Hamilton’s diverse migrant community, most of whom will be able to read newspapers from their home countries in their own language,” she said.

Libraries Information and Heritage Manager Mark Caunter said library users can also use PressDisplay as a tool for accessing international classified advertisements.

“As well as enabling residents to keep up to date with international news, PressDisplay allows the whole of the newspaper to be accessed from cover to cover, including the classified section. This could benefit those seeking overseas employment as it would allow them to browse the job ads,” he said.

The trial will continue until the end of September, with the libraries seeking feedback from the public to determine whether PressDisplay should be kept as a permanent service.

ENDS

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