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Staff with the Belleville Public library continue to look to modernizing services.
Here is the latest from the team in a statement.
The Belleville Public Library Board is pleased to announce the launch of a capital campaign to raise funds for the expansion of library services through the introduction of self-serve and mobile technology. This approach will extend services throughout our community and provide more convenience for patrons who live outside of the downtown core.
Through the use of return bins, hold pick-up lockers, and vending machines, Belleville Public Library will provide convenient drop-off and pick-up options at several locations in our municipality. Once in place, patrons can choose to request material through the online catalogue and select one of the pick-up points available. A notification will be sent to indicate that items are available at the requested location, and items can then be retrieved with a valid library card.
Over the next 3 to 5 years, we hope to develop several convenient pick-up / drop-off locations, with the first installation planned for 2027. Possible locations include retail shops, municipal facilities, transit hubs, and sporting venues. There is currently a return bin located at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre that may offer an opportunity to install a hold pick-up locker or vending machine.
In addition to fixed pick-up and drop-off locations, the Board is looking forward to the implementation of a mobile library (i.e. bookmobile) to provide outreach and library collections to all parts of our municipality. Bookmobiles provide pick-up and return services, wireless internet, a browsing collection, card registration, and drop-in programming and outreach activities. Visits to schools, long-term care facilities, parks, festivals, concerts, and more will also be possible.
Bookmobiles represent a flexible and efficient alternative to costly brick-and-mortar branch locations. Mobile services can be particularly valuable to rural communities where transportation to the main branch may be challenging.
In addition to soliciting donations, the Board will also offer opportunities for sponsorships and limited advertising. Grant funding will be pursued from private and government sources. Funds raised will be placed in reserve for the purchase, operation and maintenance of self-serve and mobile equipment. To date, there has been over $20,000 in donated funds collected in this new reserve fund.
If you are interested in donating to support this initiative, or would like information on sponsorship options, please contact Administration at the number below. Donations can also be made online at CanadaHelps.org or in person at the downtown branch.
