Tea Tree Gully Library, South Australia (SA), in Adelaide’s northeast has embraced the rapid advancements in library technology.
Gone are the days when you needed to visit a library in person, to use services and programs.
You can now store your library membership number in an app, request books online and even have them home delivered.
Thanks to the new app developed by Public Libraries SA, customers can now scan any book, DVD or CD barcode to see if it’s available at any library in the state.
Library members have free 24/7 access to a massive range of eBook and Audiobook titles through Libby, a user friendly app that allows users to easily browse and borrow classics, new releases, nonfiction and bestsellers for all ages.
The RB Digital app provides access to thousands of Australian and international magazine titles for free.
Best of all, eBooks, audiobooks or eMagazines can be borrowed any time of the day without stepping into a library. They return automatically and there’s no late fees.
Customers can pay their fines via EFTPOS machines that are now installed on the self-check-out machines, at the same time as borrowing their books – so not even a nosey librarian need know.
In mid-2019, the library is planning to install new automated returns machines to let customers return their own library items, and see them being sorted onto the different trolleys for shelving.
For those customers who still like to browse the library on foot, a huge selection of free monthly computer classes are available, covering topics such as booking an international holiday using apps, Netflix and podcasts.
The Library is also helping kids explore science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) through fun, hands-on programs that will prepare them for their techy future.
STEAM events on offer include Code Club, Lego-Botics and a special monthly tech session for home-schooled children.
Designed to complement school programs, STEAM sessions encourage problem solving through play and are a great way for children to interact with other like-minded individuals passionate about technology.
