12 September 2000

SEEK new world of learning at libraries

From library services at the touch of a computer key to worldwide learning through the Internet, SEEK and you shall find at Auckland City Libraries.

This week marks the introduction of SEEK, a new electronic service available at 130 terminals across all of the city’s 17 libraries.

Libraries manager Barbara Birkbeck describes SEEK as one of the most significant developments since computers were first introduced to Auckland City Libraries more than a decade ago.

From now until September 20, each of the libraries is offering free training on its terminals, with a prize draw open to all Auckland City Libraries members who take part. The winner will receive a $2500 Compaq computer, sponsored by libraries’ project partner, Datacom Systems Limited.

“One of our aims is to make sure everyone in the community has equal access to information, particularly via the Internet. Bringing this digital technology to their doorsteps will offer people a wide world of information, no matter how small the library,” says Barbara Birkbeck.

“That’s why we’re putting a lot of effort into providing training. All anyone who is interested has to do is take a small first step - walk through a library door and spot our trainers wearing red “Ask me about SEEK’ T-shirts.”
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What can people find with SEEK? “User-friendly access to the Internet, plus a wide range of library services - including some ‘self help’ services that can be carried out independently from library staff.”

Library customers can access the same information from any point in the system at any library. Through SEEK, they can:

 Learn Internet skills (five libraries have Internet access seven days a week: Central City, Mt Wellington (Panmure), Mt Albert, Mt Roskill and St Heliers.
 Access the libraries’ own website, as well as more than 700 key reference websites, free of charge. There is a charge for personal email and Internet surfing.
 Renew and reserve books and magazines, as well as print information.
 Tap into the library catalogue and unique electronic databases.
 Access their own account details and compile their own book lists.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Libraries manager Barbara Birkbeck, tel: 307 7734.

To arrange a photo opportunity with the SEEK trainers in their red T-shirts at one of your local libraries, please contact Libraries’ marketing manager, Kay Forrester, tel: 307 7572 or 025 761 613 (or a photograph of one of the trainers with a SEEK terminal can be emailed on request).

There will also be a photo opportunity when Auckland City Libraries launches SEEK officially at 6pm on Thursday, September 21 at Mt Roskill Community Library. The winner of the Compaq computer will be drawn and the occasion will provide a chance for the Mayor of Auckland, along with partners of Auckland City Libraries, to see SEEK in action.

Ref: JG

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