South Shore library launches new look

To achieve that mission, the Library is undergoing a metamorphosis - new name, new logo, new library card, new services and new drive to get more books into the hands of the public faster than ever.

“Library staff and board have worked hard during the past year and a half to evaluate what the Library does and is now working more efficiently,” says Chief Librarian Cheryl Stenstrom. “After talking to dozens of people, one of the things we learned was that the name Regional Library did not accurately express who we serve. With that in mind, the Board has decided to change the name to South Shore Public Libraries.”

Staff and Board are pleased to launch the new name and look. The launch will start Sept. 29 and continue throughout October, which is also Canadian Library Month.

Communications Coordinator Teresa Workman is excited to launch the new look. “The Library’s new brand is clean and contemporary. The new logo reflects what we do best - provide books!” It also introduces a new colour scheme for the library - in teal and blue.

“Part of our new branding is a fresh, new library card design - one for adults and one for kids,” says Workman. “The adult card reflects our new logo and the children’s card is bright and colourful. Many adults want one too. I should add that over 12,000 borrowers with the blue cards we’ve had to this point will still be able to use them at all SSPL branches.”

In addition to the new look, library borrowers can expect hundreds of new books in the coming months. “Changes in staffing and the reduction of one Mobile will mean more books, faster, for the public,” promises Stenstrom. “Our Technical Services team is hard at work ordering and processing new books in all genres and formats. Hundreds of new books have been ordered in this week. Look for them soon at your branch.”

South Shore Public Libraries is also going to a three-week loan period, a change from the former four weeks. This will help circulate books faster. Express loans, another new service, will mean one week loans for best sellers and items in high demand.

“This really shortens the wait time if you’re 15th on the list for the next J. D. Robb,” says Workman.

Books By Mail is yet another new service the Library has initiated to get books to borrowers. Rural residents or those unable to access Mobile or Town Libraries may be eligible to have books delivered or sent in the mail. This service is free. Call or ask at your library for details. Call toll free (another new feature) at 1-877-455-2548.

“Starting next week, the Library’s website will reflect the new look,” Stenstrom says. Borrowers can expect the same great service features like placing requests for the books you want, renewing your books online and checking your account. Check it out at southshorepubliclibraries.ca

“To launch the new look we’re planning a month long series of events and displays that the public is invited to share. The first display will focus on general library services and many of the services and features mentioned above. On Oct. 4, local personalities will help staff check out books to the borrowers and serve cake and coffee,” says Workman about the launch details. Expect to see familiar faces, like Mayor John Leefe, RCMP Constable Laura Cormier and Owen Hamlin in the Thomas H. Raddall Library.

In addition to programming, library staff will hold a membership drive throughout the month. Workman explains the focus is on children in Grades Primary-3. “We’ll distribute a brochure about library services to children through the local schools during the first week of October. Kids are welcome to sign up for a new ‘star’ card, although the older, blue South Shore Regional Library cards will still work. If they wish, students can trade the old card for a shiny, new card. It’s not necessary to re-register if they’re trading cards. We’ll also invite seniors to sign up during the month, although everyone is welcome to sign up for a library card. It’s free.”

Other events during the month include weekly storytimes and after school programs, tween movie nights, ghost stories, a drawing program, library cafés, and a Small Communities, Big Ideas Discussion series.

Writer-In-Residence Sylvia Gunnery will begin office hours and hold writing workshops to help emerging and experienced authors in all Town libraries. Seniors can learn basic computer skills. Near the end of October the library will launch our Adopt-A-Book campaign and introduce a very special collection of materials.

Watch for details in local papers and on CKBW throughout the month.

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