We Are Almost There

We have made outstanding progress at the new Central Library toward our opening in late September. Staff moved into the new library a few weeks ago and we have almost all of the collections onsite, save some of the artwork. Various systems and equipment are being installed, too. We are almost there…

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 15^th 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.