14 October 2010

Exciting developments at Upper Hutt Library; come in and see for yourself from 27 October!

Upper Hutt City’s Central Library has undergone a series of exciting changes and is set to reopen bigger and better than ever on Wednesday 27 October. New furniture, lighting, technology and a rearrangement of collections are just a few of the exciting changes taking place to make the library larger, more user-friendly and comfortable.

The Central Library redevelopment has seen the existing structure upgraded and extended to provide 30 percent more additional space. This will enable the library to host more programmes and activities for all ages and to improve access to the collections. Much of the shelving will be lowered and books of a similar interest will be grouped together.

The innovative new layout aims to strengthen the library’s role as a dynamic community hub – a focal point for community learning, lifestyle and leisure. Debbie Duncan, Library Manager said: “Upper Hutt Library is one of the communities most well used facilities, offering a wide range of services to our residents. It’s also a place where people can come and relax. By investing in these modernised improvements, we’re ensuring that the wonderful resources our library has on offer will be enjoyed well into the future.”

New generation Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) self-check technology has been installed which enables patrons to self-check in and out their items. Upper Hutt City Library will be the first public library in the region to install this smart RFID technology and the first library in the country to enable self returns. A unique microchip embedded into every item in the library’s collection will enable users to quickly and efficiently self-check in and out their items and conveniently pay any fines and charges by EFTPOS.

Wireless internet access will be available throughout the library and a new children’s learning centre equipped with 12 new computers is being installed.

Casual modern lounge seating will be available in the new Rotary Lounge and there will be more areas set aside in the new layout for quiet study. The open-plan design of the Rotary Lounge will enable it to be transformed into an area to host popular programmes and events. Out the front, new outdoor seats have been installed in a landscaped garden setting. Well lit landscaped paths lead around the sides of the library connecting the library to rear parking.

A schematic floor plan of the new library is available on www.upperhuttlibrary.co.nz

Public are invited to attend a Maori blessing ceremony of the redeveloped library at 6am on Tuesday 26 October (Upper Hutt Central Library).

ENDS
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