| Kathleen
Ryan, SELB Chief Librarian said “With computers and
the Internet available in every library in Northern Ireland,
library users will be able to email friends and relatives
across the globe. Users will also be able to surf the net
free of charge to find out what’s going on locally,
research their family history, shop online or gain access
to information and services from community and government
sources.
“In addition, for the first time, everyone will have
equal access to the same range of services in every public
library, regardless of size or location and, because all libraries
will be connected, people will be able to use the total library
stock of Northern Ireland and use their membership ticket
in any local library.”
She continued, “This new technology gives the local
library an extra dimension as a gateway to the rest of the
world. The network will break down many barriers including
access to information, learning and training. Information
technology will be open to library users of all ages, educational
background and income, and through the adaptive technology
planned for the network, to anyone regardless of physical
disability.”
Currently within the Southern Education & Library Board
area, 13 local branches are now up and running under the People’s
Network with the majority of the remainder due to be operational
by the end of December. Some of the larger branches, such
as Portadown Library, will have up to 30 PC’s available
for use by its members. Armagh Branch Library however has
to undergo renovation work to house the necessary computer
equipment and it is anticipated that work will start on the
refurbishment in the New Year. The Board was delighted that
the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure recently earmarked
£150,000 for improvements to Armagh branch library.
Work is to include provision of a lift, upgrade to stairs
and public toilets, improvements to the study and reference
areas and also to provide sufficient space to house ICT equipment
for the People’s Network.
Chief Librarian Kathleen Ryan continued, “Since the
arrival of the People’s Network in our branches, we
have noticed an increase in use and feedback to date has been
tremendous.”
The People’s Network has been installed as part the
£36 million Electronic Libraries Project that was created
to deliver public access to electronic information through
libraries as well as a new library management system. The
five education and library boards have developed the project
jointly, and have helped fund the project alongside the New
Opportunities Fund, the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure,
the Executive, Department of Education and the Gates Foundation.
The New Opportunities Fund also provided funding for IT training
for library staff. The network will be installed and managed
by Amey PLC as part of a PFI project.
The New Opportunities Fund, which distributes National Lottery
money to health, education and environment projects, has contributed
£4.3 million to the project as part of its People’s
Network programme. This programme aims to help some of the
most disadvantaged communities in Northern Ireland take up
new learning opportunities through information and communication
technologies. . |
