LIBRARY users will be able to access new technology-related tools including 3D printers as library services continue to diversify.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams has announced $55,707 in funding towards new and emerging technology to boost library services.
The funding will help to connect and train the community with a range of new tools, including 3D printers, virtual reality headsets, iPads and Macbooks.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council was awarded the funding through a competitive application system under the NSW Public Library Infrastructure program.
An early adapter of new technologies, Port Macquarie-Hastings Library was one of the first services in the state to provide Wi-Fi, e-books and an extensive range of downloadable resources.
Mrs Williams said she was thrilled with the funding boost.
She said technology changed so rapidly and it was hard for people in the street to keep up.
"What a great opportunity for people to see first hand what technology of today looks like, what it can do and how it can play a role in their lives," Mrs Williams said.
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant said Port Macquarie Library was one of many receiving grants for projects providing significant public benefit and improving public library buildings, spaces and information technology.
Council's community and economic development director Tricia Bulic said with the support of this funding, the council would now able to take new technology and software applications out into the community and deliver workshops where they were most needed.
The council will provide training sessions and workshops at branch libraries as well as some of the rural schools visited by its mobile van service.
The new technologies will also be showcased at community events, nursing homes and local clubs.
The project includes replacement of the existing bank of personal computers in the library training room with a combination of laptops and iPads.
"By using Macbooks we can provide training in both Apple and Windows environments," Ms Bulic said. "All equipment introduced will be portable to enable workshops to be delivered throughout the whole region."
