New technologies will be introduced at the Central Library.
Servers are being installed to help us manage the hundreds of computers that
will be available for public use. In a building with seven floors and approximately
300 hundred networked computers, how will you know which one is available for
you to use? The answer: The Central Library’s computer reservation system!
Some of the new systems are being tested at the new library,
too. We are excited to soon introduce our new automated materials handling
system. Our technician, Tim from Lyngsoe, tells me that the system will convey
materials all the way from the Children’s Room clear over to the other end of
the building, traversing 60 meters, so items can be checked in automatically
using RFID (radio frequency identification.)
Staff member Gwen feeds a book into the Library’s automated book return to test the material handling system. |
Staff members Haley and Tim behind the scenes in the Circulation
area test the sorting process on the automated material handling system. |
In preparation for services in the new library, staff has planned new ways for you to have access to our rich and diverse collections. So while you may never personally turn the pages of the Book of Hours, a 15th Century tome from France, or the beautifully illustrated Rubaiyat, by Omar Khayyam, you may do so digitally by logging in to the library’s Digital Archive. From time to time, the physical book may be on display under lock and key, but you can view every single page of these treasures online. And, if you do so here at the library using our kiosks, the experience will be illuminating.
While you are checking out our new digital archive, why not
take a look at the 64 photographs of the old
Central Library at 820 E. Street? I happened by there last Monday. The
building was serene and beautiful, perhaps as it had been in the 1950’s when
first introduced. The Donal
Hord bas relief on the exterior of the building really stood out.
And while you are at it, take a look at the photo of the Central
Library Building at Night, 1954 and compare it to the beautifully lit dome
of knowledge at the new Central Library. One has been a shining beacon of
knowledge for many years in the past, the other will be for many years to come. Check back
soon for more details about the new
Central Library September 28 celebration and sneak peek before we open with
full services on Monday, September 30.